In a shocking incident that has sparked nationwide outrage, Aleema Khan, the sister of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, was violently manhandled and detained by police outside Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail. The confrontation occurred on Tuesday when she arrived to meet her imprisoned brother, who is the chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.
Violent Confrontation Outside Prison Gates
According to multiple eyewitness accounts and video evidence, police personnel used excessive force against Aleema Khan as she attempted to enter the high-security prison facility. The incident unfolded around afternoon hours when she came for a scheduled meeting with the former prime minister.
Visuals circulating on social media show distressing scenes of female police officers grabbing Aleema Khan by her arms and hair, forcefully pushing her toward a police vehicle. The PTI leader's sister can be heard protesting the rough treatment while being compelled into detention.
Official Response and Political Backlash
The PTI party immediately condemned the incident, describing it as "a new low in political victimization" and "state brutality against women." Party officials confirmed that Aleema Khan was formally arrested and taken to an undisclosed location following the altercation.
This development comes amid increasing tensions between Imran Khan's supporters and the establishment. The former cricket star turned politician has been incarcerated at Adiala Jail since August 2022 following his conviction in multiple cases, which his party claims are politically motivated.
Growing International Concern
Human rights organizations have expressed serious concerns about the treatment of political prisoners and their families in Pakistan. The manhandling of a female family member of a former head of state has drawn particular criticism from international observers.
This incident occurs against the backdrop of ongoing political instability in Pakistan, where general elections earlier this year resulted in a fractured mandate. Imran Khan's party, despite winning significant seats, has alleged widespread electoral manipulation.
The detention of Aleema Khan represents another escalation in the continuing political drama surrounding the imprisoned former prime minister. As developments unfold, the international community watches closely how Pakistani authorities handle this sensitive situation involving such a high-profile political family.