A senior federal government minister on Wednesday offered to move Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan from Adiala Jail to his Bani Gala residence if the party submits a written request, media reports have stated.
Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said that Khan could be shifted to his residence, which could be declared a sub-jail. He added that PTI leaders and family members would be allowed to meet him there regularly.
“There are about 8,000 inmates in Adiala Jail who have been facing difficulties due to Imran Khan and his political activities,” he said. “If PTI submits a written request, we are ready to transfer him to Bani Gala. Party leaders can meet him there, even play ludo or other games if they want.”
He clarified that Imran Khan cannot be released but the government is “ready to move him if PTI submits a formal request.”
PTI’s senior leader and former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser responded by saying he was not aware of the offer but will consider it if the government was serious. “If the government shows genuine intent, we will consult with our legal team and Imran Khan before deciding,” he said.
“My understanding is that the government might backtrack, but if it is sincere, we will move forward. If Imran Khan allows it, we will definitely submit a written request,” he added.
Qaiser also said that “Imran Khan has been in jail for over two years and is legally entitled to bail.” He urged the government to “remove pressure from the judiciary and let the courts decide freely.”
He further said the government should, “as a goodwill gesture, allow PTI leaders and family members to meet Imran Khan in jail so that the matter can move forward.”
It is worth noting that in January 2024, Imran Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, was moved to the Bani Gala residence after receiving a 14-year prison sentence in the Toshakhana case. The house was declared a sub-jail at the time. However, she later claimed she was being poisoned there and approached the Islamabad High Court, which ordered her to be transfered back to Adiala Jail in May 2024.