KP Minister Slams Punjab for Blocking Imran Khan's Court-Ordered Meeting
Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Information and Public Relations, Shafi Jan, has issued a strong statement condemning the Punjab government for denying a scheduled meeting with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder Imran Khan. He labeled this action as a blatant violation of court orders and a clear manifestation of authoritarian governance.
Violation of Judicial Directives
According to Shafi Jan, the Islamabad High Court had specifically designated Tuesday for a meeting between Imran Khan, his family members, and his legal counsel. However, the Punjab government once again prevented this meeting from taking place, disregarding the judicial mandate. Jan emphasized that this continuous defiance of court orders reflects an undemocratic and authoritarian attitude from the Punjab administration.
Peaceful Protest Met with Force
Jan reported that a large number of PTI lawmakers, office-bearers, and workers had gathered peacefully outside Adiala Jail in anticipation of the meeting. Instead of facilitating the process, Punjab Police responded with aggression, baton-charging the peaceful protesters. Several workers were arrested, and their vehicles were damaged during the incident. Jan criticized this heavy-handed approach, stating it undermines democratic principles.
Undeclared Ban on Political Meetings
Further, Shafi Jan alleged that the Punjab government, out of fear of Imran Khan's influence, has imposed an undeclared ban on meetings between the political leadership, lawyers, and family members. He accused the Punjab government of neither upholding the Constitution and law nor respecting court directives, with jail authorities repeatedly violating judicial orders.
Political Victimization Over Public Issues
Jan highlighted that Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, along with party leadership, has exhausted every constitutional, legal, and democratic avenue to arrange a meeting with Imran Khan. He criticized the federal and Punjab governments for focusing on political victimization rather than addressing pressing public issues such as economic stability and public relief.
Constitutional Rights and Public Gatherings
In response to the denial, a petition has been filed in court seeking permission for a public gathering at Liaquat Bagh after the Punjab government refused approval. Shafi Jan stressed that every political party, including PTI, has the constitutional right to conduct peaceful political activities anywhere in the country. He asserted that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains the only province where all political parties enjoy complete political freedom, contrasting it with what he described as the retaliatory priorities of the federal and Punjab governments.
Condemnation of Attack on Police Mobile
In a separate statement, Shafi Jan strongly condemned a cowardly attack on a police mobile in Lakki Marwat. He expressed deep sorrow over the injuries sustained by five police personnel, including an Assistant Sub-Inspector, terming the targeting of police as highly condemnable. Jan praised the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police for their frontline role in combating terrorism and maintaining law and order, noting that their sacrifices are widely acknowledged. He assured that the provincial government is committed to taking all necessary measures to eliminate terrorism and protect citizens' life and property, while praying for the swift recovery of the injured personnel and ensuring they receive the best medical care.
