Imran Khan Alleges Jailed Wife Given Food Mixed with Toilet Cleaner, Court Orders Medical Exam

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has alleged that his jailed wife, Bushra Bibi, is being given food mixed with "toilet cleaner" at the Adiala jail in Rawalpindi, causing her daily stomach irritation. During a court hearing, Khan informed the judge that the jail administration was adamant about conducting Bushra Bibi's medical tests at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Hospital, despite a recommendation from the Shaukat Khanum Hospital Chief Medical Officer to carry out the tests at Shifa International Hospital.

Bushra Bibi has also filed a petition before the Islamabad High Court, requesting a medical examination at Shaukat Khanum Hospital or any other private hospital of her choice to determine if she has been poisoned through contaminated food. In her petition, Bushra Bibi stated that she is suffering from heartburn and aches in her throat and mouth, which she believes is the result of eating poisonous meals. She also alleged that she has been subjected to psychological torture and that spy cameras have been installed in the room where she has been confined.

The court has ordered a medical examination of Bushra Bibi at Shifa International Hospital within two days, under the supervision of Dr. Asim Younus and a government doctor. The court also advised Imran Khan to refrain from holding "press conferences" during the hearings and suggested addressing the media after the hearing. The defense lawyers submitted a request regarding the problems faced by the media during the proceedings, and the judge addressed the journalists' difficulties in listening to the court proceedings.

Why this matters: The allegations made by Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi raise serious concerns about the treatment of political prisoners in Pakistan. The court's decision to order a medical examination at a private hospital highlights the importance of ensuring the health and well-being of detainees, regardless of their political affiliations.

The hearing was adjourned until April 23. Imran Khan, who was arrested on April 12 in the £190 million corruption case, continues to face legal challenges while in custody. The former prime minister has threatened Pakistan Army chief General Asim Munir, stating, "If anything happens to his wife, he will not leave Munir as long as he is alive and will expose his 'unconstitutional and illegal steps'."

Key Takeaways

• Imran Khan alleges his wife Bushra Bibi is being poisoned in jail with toilet cleaner.
• Bushra Bibi files petition for medical exam at private hospital, citing health issues.
• Court orders Bushra Bibi's medical exam at Shifa International Hospital within 2 days.
• Imran Khan threatens Pakistan Army chief over Bushra Bibi's treatment in custody.
• Case highlights concerns about treatment of political prisoners in Pakistan.