Imran Khan’s Sister Warns Adiala Jail After Rumours of Declining Health Spark Tension

Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, issued a sharp warning to Adiala Jail officials on Friday, declaring that the family would not spare anyone responsible if any harm comes to the former Pakistan Prime Minister. The confrontation comes after weeks of denied family access and a wave of online rumours claiming Imran Khan’s health had deteriorated or that he had even died inside the high-security Rawalpindi prison.

Aleema, accompanied by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister, approached the Islamabad High Court to file a contempt petition against the Adiala Jail superintendent and other officials for failing to comply with earlier court orders reinstating twice-a-week visitation rights. Khan, who has been in custody since April 2023 and faces multiple cases, has reportedly not met his family for the last six weeks.

Rumours Trigger Nationwide Alarm

Social media erupted late Thursday, pushing “Where is Imran Khan?” to the top trends on X after unverified claims suggested the PTI founder’s condition had sharply worsened. The rumours fuelled panic among supporters already concerned about his prolonged isolation and alleged restrictions on legal and medical access.

Adiala Jail authorities rejected all speculation, calling the claims “baseless” and insisting that the 73-year-old leader is “perfectly healthy, under supervision, and inside the facility.” Officials also clarified that reports of him being moved from Adiala were “absolutely false.”

PTI Escalates Pressure on Punjab Government

PTI leaders intensified their demands on Thursday, calling on the Punjab government — which oversees Adiala Jail under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz — to issue an on-record statement verifying Khan’s condition. The party described the continued denial of visits as an “undeclared ban,” urging authorities to restore court-ordered access immediately.

PTI leader Meher Bano Qureshi said the rumours reflect the public’s growing unease and that the simplest way to end speculation would be to allow Khan’s sisters and legal team to meet him.

Maryam Nawaz has publicly distanced herself from the situation, claiming she has “no control” over Imran Khan’s meeting schedules. Khan, however, has previously alleged that an army colonel exercises effective control over key matters inside the prison.

Mounting Tensions Over Security, Secrecy and Access

The former Prime Minister’s incarceration has repeatedly sparked political tensions, with PTI accusing authorities of withholding transparency while raising concerns about physical safety and due process.

With Aleema Khan now directly warning jail officials and the matter reaching the Islamabad High Court, the pressure on the Punjab administration — and the federal government — has sharply intensified.

The court is expected to hear the contempt plea soon, which could determine whether Imran Khan’s visitation rights will be immediately restored.