The Islamabad High Court (IHC) took a firm stance on Tuesday, directing the Islamabad advocate general to submit a written response in a contempt of court petition. This petition centers on the authorities' alleged failure to facilitate a meeting between PTI founder Imran Khan and his legal counsel, Salman Akram Raja, despite a prior court order.
Court Criticizes PTA's Unsatisfactory Response
During the hearing, which also addressed a separate writ petition filed by citizen Ghulam Murtaza seeking the blocking of Imran Khan's X (formerly Twitter) account, Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir expressed dissatisfaction with the reply submitted by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). Justice Tahir noted that while responses had been received from jail authorities, the PTA, and other respondents, the PTA's submission did not align with the nature of the writ petition.
Addressing the PTA's counsel, Justice Tahir emphasized that the authority should carefully compare its reply with the actual relief sought in the petition, highlighting a disconnect in their response.
Lawyer's Inability to Consult Client
Salman Akram Raja informed the court that he had been unable to consult his client, Imran Khan, in connection with the case, despite a court order dated November 4 permitting a legal meeting. Raja stated that he had not been allowed to meet Imran Khan since the filing of the case, raising concerns about legal access and compliance with judicial directives.
The court noted that final arguments in the X-account case would be heard on February 24, but this is contingent upon the meeting being arranged between Imran Khan and his lawyer.
Government's Jurisdictional Argument and Court's Firm Stand
The government lawyer contended that matters related to meetings with detainees fall within the jurisdiction of a larger bench, suggesting a procedural hurdle. However, Justice Tahir remarked that the case could not proceed unless the petitioner's counsel was allowed to meet his client, underscoring the importance of legal consultation in judicial processes.
Directing the government to submit its stance in writing, Justice Tahir observed that an appropriate order would be passed based on the responses received. The court adjourned further hearing of the case until February 24, setting a clear timeline for resolution.
Background on Imran Khan's Detention
PTI founder Imran Khan has been detained at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail since September 2023. The former prime minister has not been allowed to meet his lawyers since November 2025, a situation that has sparked legal challenges and raised questions about detainee rights and judicial oversight in Pakistan.
