The federal government reportedly wants to transfer former Prime Minister and PTI founder Imran Khan from Adiala Jail to his Bani Gala residence.
Speaking on Asma Shirazi’s show, the Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry offered that if PTI submits a written request, the party’s founder, Imran Khan, could be transferred to his Bani Gala residence.
Meanwhile, PTI responded to the offer by saying that if the government demonstrates its seriousness on the matter, the party would consider it.
Explaining his offer, Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said that Adiala Jail currently houses around 8,000 inmates who are facing difficulties due to Imran Khan and his political activities.
He added, “If he (Imran Khan) submits a request, we are ready to transfer him. There (in Bani Gala), PTI leaders can meet him, they can even play Ludo and other games if they wish.”
He clarified that Imran Khan cannot be released, but his Bani Gala residence could be declared a sub-jail, allowing him to be transferred there. “PTI should submit a written request for Imran Khan’s transfer from Adiala to Bani Gala, and we will make it happen,” he said.
When asked for a reaction, senior PTI leader and former Speaker of the National Assembly Asad Qaiser told Dawn that although he was unaware of the offer, if the government was genuinely serious, the proposal could be considered.
“I think the government will backtrack on this, but if it is serious, we will decide after consulting the party, our legal team, and Imran Khan himself. If Khan Sahib allows it, we will definitely submit a written request,” he said.
Responding to another question, Asad Qaiser said that the PTI founder has been imprisoned for over two years and is now legally entitled to bail. He added, “If the government is truly serious, it should remove pressure from the judiciary and allow bail to be granted.”
He further said that as a goodwill gesture, the government should allow PTI leaders and family members to meet Imran Khan in jail so that the matter can move forward.
