Threat to PTI founder's life; SHC questions jurisdiction

Adiala Jail is located in Lahore High Court jurisdiction, go there, court tells petitioner

KARACHI:

A two-member bench, headed by Chief Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi, took up a petition involving alleged threats to the life of the PTI founder, Imran Khan, in Adiala Jail.

The petitioner's counsel expressed concerns over the safety of the PTI founder and sought intervention from the court. Chief Justice Abbasi inquired whether the prison authorities, IG prisons, and relevant authorities had been notified about the threats. He questioned the jurisdiction of Adiala Jail.

The government lawyer clarified that Adiala Jail falls under the administration of Lahore.

Chief Justice Abbasi stressed equality before the law, stating, "The law applies equally to all, regardless of status."

The lawyer explained that the jail superintendent is accountable to the Punjab home department.

Chief Justice Abbasi questioned the responsibilities of authorities regarding prisoners, urging clarity on the scope of the application before issuing any orders.

Advocate Abdul Wahab Baloch requested the transfer of the PTI founder to a jail in another province.

Chief Justice Abbasi suggested approaching the Lahore High Court for relief citing lack of jurisdiction.

Abdul Wahab Baloch advocate assured the court of further efforts to address the concerns at the next hearing, asserting the federal jurisdiction over jail matters.

The bench adjourned the hearing until April 2, issuing notices to all parties involved.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 21^st, 2024.