The Lahore High Court (LHC) has ordered jail authorities to arrange a Noreen Niazi meeting with her two daughters on Tuesday, underscoring a growing legal dispute over the extended detention of Imran Khan’s sisters.
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Court order for a Noreen Niazi meeting
Justice Abher Gul Khan issued the directive after hearing pleas filed by Noreen’s daughter, Sakeena, and Shahrez Khan, the son of another sister, Aleema Khan. The judge also summoned the Lahore deputy commissioner to appear on November 4 to explain the extensions granted to the detention orders of Noreen and her sister Uzma.
Background of the detentions
In September, Noreen Niazi, Aleema Khan and Uzma Khan were detained under the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, 1960 as the Pakistan Tehreek‑e‑Insaf (PTI) prepared a protest march to Islamabad. Each was initially held for 30 days; after that period lapsed, the Punjab government extended the detentions for another 30 days.
Legal challenges to the extensions
Petitioner counsel Rana Mudassar Umar argued that the fresh detention notifications were unlawful, noting that the Lahore deputy commissioner had issued the extensions without proper judicial oversight. He also highlighted that the detainees had been denied family visits and access to legal counsel.
Health concerns and medical treatment
Noreen’s health deteriorated while she was in Kot Lakhpat Jail, prompting doctors to recommend her transfer to the Punjab Institute of Cardiology. The LHC previously directed her lawyer to file a separate application for medical treatment and family meetings. Adviser to the prime minister, Rana Sanaullah, later told the Senate that Noreen was “fine” after receiving treatment in Lahore.
Implications and next steps
The LHC’s order for a Noreen Niazi meeting reflects broader scrutiny of the government’s use of the public order ordinance against political opponents. The court will review reports from the Punjab Home Department, due by 2 pm, before deciding on the legality of the extended detentions.
FAQ
Why did the Lahore High Court order a Noreen Niazi meeting?
The court sought to ensure the detainee’s right to family contact and to assess her health condition following complaints of denied visits and inadequate medical care.
What legal basis is used for the detentions?
The sisters were detained under the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, 1960, a law often invoked to prevent public disturbances.
What could happen after the Home Department’s report?
Depending on the findings, the LHC may either uphold the extensions, order the release of the sisters, or set new conditions for their detention.
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Source: Dawn
Image: Representative image (AI-generated)
