RAWALPINDI: The court hearing the Toshakhana-II case against former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi has directed Adiala Jail authorities to allow both legal representatives and family members to attend the proceedings.
In a written directive, Special Judge Central Shahrukh Arjumand instructed the Adiala Jail superintendent to provide entry to all lawyers who have formally filed their power of attorney. The order further specified that family members of the accused, if present outside the prison premises on the day of hearings, must also be permitted to join the sessions.
The instructions followed an application submitted by Barrister Salman Safdar, who objected to the restrictions imposed during the previous jail hearing. Safdar argued that barring lawyers and relatives was both unfair and unnecessary, depriving the accused of adequate legal support and family presence.
After reviewing the matter, the court disposed of Safdar’s plea by issuing clear directions to the jail administration. The order emphasized that lawyers’ attendance is a legal right and that denying them access would compromise the defence process. Similarly, the court acknowledged that family presence during hearings is an important consideration that should not be curtailed without reason.
The ruling highlights judicial concern over maintaining transparency in a case that has drawn nationwide attention. The Toshakhana-II proceedings, involving Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, have already faced scrutiny, and the court stressed that open and fair hearings must be ensured.
Officials at Adiala Jail have now been instructed to comply with the order in letter and spirit, with the judge warning that any continued restrictions could amount to contempt of court. For Khan, his family, and legal team, the written order provides assurance of smoother participation in upcoming sessions.
