The Islamabad High Court heard petitions challenging the alleged solitary confinement of former prime minister Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, during which Islamabad Advocate General Naveed Hayat Malik told the court that both were not being kept in isolation.
Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro presided over the hearing, while Barrister Salman Safdar appeared on behalf of the petitioners.
The advocate general informed the court that Adiala Jail Superintendent Sajid Baig had submitted a report stating that Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi were receiving facilities better than those available under B class status.
According to the report, security concerns prevent contact with other inmates, but that situation does not constitute solitary confinement.
The jail superintendent told the court that prisoners held in solitary confinement remain locked in their cells for 24 hours a day, whereas Imran Khan is allowed to move freely within a compound consisting of seven cells.
The report further stated that Imran Khan has access to television, newspapers and books and that more than 500 books have been provided to him so far.
Barrister Salman Safdar, however, argued that Imran Khan had complained about restrictions on meetings and the effects of prolonged isolation. He also claimed that Bushra Bibi remained in isolation for 24 hours a day.
The court directed both sides to submit written arguments and relevant legal references before issuing an order.
