LHC Rejects Suspension of PTI Sisters’ Detention

The Lahore High Court rejected a petition to suspend the preventive detention notices issued against Noreen Niazi and Dr Uzma Khan, sisters of PTI founder Imran Khan.

Both women were taken into custody on Monday for 30 days under the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance 1960, a day after their sister Aleema Khan was detained.

The petition, filed by Sakeena Niazi, was argued by Barrister Taimur Malik and Advocate Rana Mudassir who said the sisters were nonpolitical and had no justification for detention. They presented a trial court decision that acquitted Uzma Khan and orders from the LHC Multan bench that set aside preventive detention for PTI affiliates.

Justice Abher Gul Khan said the court would first obtain a report from the relevant parties and hear their positions before deciding on suspension. Notices were then issued to the Lahore deputy commissioner, capital city police officer, Home Department secretary and Kot Lakhpat jail superintendent.

The decision comes as the PTI plans a nationwide protest on 27 September to demand Imran Khan’s release. Punjab authorities have imposed a 13 day ban on gatherings and Section 144 restrictions, and the Inspector General warned that violations would be dealt with strictly.