ISLAMABAD: Bushra Bibi, wife of PTI founder Imran Khan and former first lady of Pakistan, has approached the Islamabad High Court (IHC) seeking improved facilities in Adiala Jail. She is currently serving a seven-year sentence in the high-profile £190 million corruption case.
Bushra Bibi filed the petition through her legal team, asking the court to direct jail authorities to provide facilities in line with the Pakistan Prison Rules, 1978. In her plea, she stated that her status as a former first lady entitled her to certain comforts under the law.
She emphasized that during her husband’s tenure as Prime Minister, she resided in the PM House and lived a life of public protocol. Therefore, the court should ensure she receives facilities similar to what her husband, Imran Khan, was granted while detained in the same jail.
Jail Authorities Accused of Inaction
The petition highlighted that Bushra Bibi had already submitted a formal application to the Adiala Jail superintendent. However, no action was taken to address her requests. Her legal team argued that this neglect violates her rights and the established prison rules.
She further urged the court to hold the federal government, the Adiala Jail superintendent, and the chief commissioner of Islamabad accountable for fulfilling their legal responsibilities.
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What is the £190 Million Case?
The case revolves around the alleged misappropriation of Rs50 billion, equivalent to £190 million at the time. The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) had returned this amount to Pakistan, expecting the money to be deposited with the Supreme Court as part of a legal settlement.
However, former Prime Minister Imran Khan allegedly obtained cabinet approval for the arrangement on December 3, 2019, without revealing the details of the deal. According to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), the settlement led to Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi receiving land worth billions of rupees—allegedly as a bribe.
NAB filed a reference in the case on December 1, 2023, naming eight accused, including Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi.
Legal Pressure Mounts
As Bushra Bibi continues to serve her sentence, her plea for improved conditions highlights the political and legal dimensions of the case. With both husband and wife imprisoned, their legal teams are actively challenging multiple aspects of their detentions.
Observers see the move as part of PTI’s broader legal strategy to highlight alleged injustices faced by its leadership in custody.
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