Form-47 assemblies have no legitimacy to change country's structure: Salman Akram Raja

PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja said on Monday that Form-47 assemblies lacked the legitimacy to change the country’s structure or alter the system of government. “We have to sit with everyone and move forward with everyone. The Form-47 assemblies do not have the legitimacy to change the structure of the country or alter the system of government. If there is agreement on our principled position on this, then we can move forward together,” said Raja while speaking to a private television programme, Capital Talk. Raja said his party was ready to work on principled grounds with all political parties, including the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F). He invited them to join its Sept 27 protest to strengthen the democratic and federal system. He said his party’s meeting with JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman at his residence had resulted in an agreement on matters of principle. “There was agreement on matters of principle. In the current situation of the country, whoever wants to move with us based on principles can do so. Why would we keep anyone away from us?” Read: Opposition alliance takes shape Raja said the PTI was not relying on anyone and was not subordinate to any political party. “We are not dependent on anyone, nor are we subordinate to anyone. If someone wants to move with us, they can do so, and if someone wants to leave, they can leave. We will continue the politics of principles that we are pursuing,” he said. Responding to a question about the long march announced by the PTI for Sept 27, Raja said the party would not prevent anyone from participating. “We will not stop anyone from participating in the long march. We will come out for the survival of this country. Whoever wants to move with us can do so, but the decision will be taken at the level of the core committee and political committee,” he said. Regarding the contempt petition filed over the government's alleged failure to comply with a Supreme Court order concerning the shifting of PTI founder Imran Khan to Shifa International Hospital for treatment, Raja clarified that the PTI had not filed the petition. “The petition had been filed by Uzma Khan and her lawyer, Uzair Bhandari, who had said it was his professional decision to determine whom to make a party to the case,” Raja said while responding to a question about why Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi had not been made a party to the case, despite the interior secretary being named as a respondent. Also Read: PTI files contempt petition in SC over alleged violation of order on Imran's hospital transfer He said Adiala Jail was located in Punjab; therefore, the relevant provincial officials were responsible for ensuring that Imran was shifted from the jail to Shifa International Hospital in accordance with the SC's order. “Adiala jail is located in Punjab, so it was the responsibility of the relevant officials in Punjab to shift Imran from Adiala jail to Shifa International Hospital under the SC's order. But because Shifa is located in Islamabad and Imran was taken to PIMS instead of Shifa, all those government officials who were present on the ground are responsible,” he said. Raja rejected the government's position regarding compliance with the SC's order, saying it was incorrect to claim that the order had not been violated. He questioned whether there had been any violation of the order or if the treatment of other patients at Shifa Hospital had been disrupted. “If some people, driven by emotion, come themselves and stand on the footpath and shower flowers in an organised manner, there is no violation of any order,” he said.

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UNESCO widens Pak heritage map

UNESCO has added 12 more historical and cultural sites from Pakistan associated with Gandhara and Buddhist heritage, Mughal-era architecture, historic forts and other cultural heritage to its Tentative List of World Heritage Sites. The latest additions take the total number of Pakistani sites on the list to 37. Their inclusion marks an important first step towards securing World Heritage status and will help highlight Pakistan's diverse cultural and historical heritage on the global stage. Currently, Pakistan has six sites inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List. The latest inclusion on the Tentative List does not confer World Heritage status on these sites; rather, it represents an important preliminary step towards possible future nomination to the final list. The cultural landscape of the Kalash Valley in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and other important archaeological and historical sites in the province have already been included. According to the latest records of UNESCO's World Heritage Centre, the Kalash Valley was added to the Tentative List in March 2026. Three sites from Punjab - Pharwala and Rohtas forts and the Tomb of Sultan Muqarrab Khan - were added to the Tentative List on May 11, 2026, according to the records. Other additions include Mai Qamro Mosque, Bazira-Barikot, the Gor Khatri Archaeological Complex, Sethi House and the Bhamala Buddhist Complex. Sindh also has significant representation on the Tentative List, with the inclusion of Kot Diji, Naukot and Umerkot forts. According to UNESCO, Kot Diji Fort is an important example of military architecture from the Talpur period, while pre-Harappan remains have also been found in its surrounding area. Pakistan's six sites already inscribed on the World Heritage List are Mohenjo Daro, Taxila, the Buddhist Ruins of Takht-i-Bahi and neighbouring city remains at Sahr-i-Bahlol, Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens, the Historical Monuments at Makli, and Rohtas Fort. Among these, Taxila, Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens, and Rohtas Fort are located in Punjab. Punjab's sites already included in the Tentative List include the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore, Wazir Khan Mosque, the Tombs of Jahangir, Asif Khan and Akbari Sarai, Hiran Minar and Tank in Sheikhupura, Harappa, the Tomb of Shah Rukn-e-Alam, and the Salt Range and Khewra Salt Mines, among others. Former Archaeology Department director Malik Maqsood said the increase in the number of Pakistani sites on the Tentative List could help draw greater international attention to the country's historical and cultural heritage, while strengthening efforts for their preservation and eventual inclusion on the World Heritage List.

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PTI demands CT coronary angiography for Imran at Shifa International Hospital

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Sunday condemned what it called the continued failure of authorities to conduct a CT Coronary Angiography on former prime minister and founder Imran Khan, demanding immediate and independent cardiac care for him at Shifa International Hospital. In a statement, Central Secretary Information, Sheikh Waqas Akram, said a government medical board had examined Imran on Aug 10 following complaints of heart palpitations and severe headaches. He said a cardiologist at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) had already recommended a CT Coronary Angiography on Aug 1 due to fluctuating blood pressure, restlessness and potential risks of cardiac complications, given Imran’s age and prolonged isolation. PRESS RELEASE PTI Demands Immediate and Independent Cardiac Care for Imran Khan Following Denied Diagnostic Tests ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Central Secretary Information Sheikh Waqas Akram has strongly condemned the continued failure of authorities to conduct a… — PTI (@PTIofficial) August 23, 2026 “Even the government’s own doctors considered this diagnostic test medically necessary,” Akram said while alleging that when Imran was taken to PIMS, the recommended procedure was not performed. According to him, hospital officials claimed that the required equipment was unavailable, despite the presence of a functional CT scanner in the radiology department capable of conducting the test. He said the incident had intensified concerns over what he described as repeated delays and apparent negligence in providing Imran with timely and appropriate medical care. Read: PTI seeks contempt action over Imran Shifa fiasco “A former prime minister was taken to a government hospital in the middle of the night, assessed by doctors who recommended an essential cardiac investigation, and then returned to Adiala Jail without the test being conducted. This cannot be dismissed as an isolated administrative lapse; it reflects a deeply troubling pattern,” Akram said. He said the required specialist facilities were available at Shifa International Hospital. Akram also referred to a Supreme Court order concerning Imran’s comprehensive medical examination and treatment at Shifa International Hospital, alleging that authorities had bypassed the directive and instead transferred him to a facility where the CT angiography was not performed. “When the necessary facilities were available at Shifa International, deliberately taking Imran to a hospital unable or unwilling to perform the procedure raises a grave question: was the decision made in advance to prevent the CT Coronary Angiography from being conducted?” he asked. Also Read: Govt fully implemented SC order on Imran’s medical check-up, says Tarar “Authorities must explain why he was not taken to the facility specifically designated for his medical care,” he added. The PTI leader rejected government assertions that Imran was receiving adequate medical attention. He said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s decision to form an inquiry committee only underscored what he described as a systemic failure, raising questions about why the medically recommended test had not been conducted, why inter-departmental coordination had failed and why directives concerning Shifa International had allegedly been ignored. The PTI demanded the immediate performance of the recommended CT Coronary Angiography at Shifa International Hospital under the supervision of independent specialists and Imran’s personal physicians. It also called for the prompt disclosure of all medical records, reports and diagnostic results to his family, personal medical team and legal counsel. The party demanded full implementation of the SC’s order regarding Imran’s comprehensive medical examination and treatment at Shifa International Hospital. It also called for a transparent and non-partisan inquiry into why Imran was taken to PIMS instead of Shifa International and who ordered that the recommended diagnostic procedure not be performed.

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‘Blind murder’ theory falls apart as TikToker killing probe uncovers family plot

The murder investigation into 28-year-old TikToker Shamsu Bibi, also known as Ayesha Gilamana, in Taxila took a dramatic turn on Saturday, with police alleging that her father, biological brother and close relatives were involved in the conspiracy to kill her. Police have arrested five suspects, including her father and brother, while the two alleged shooters are also in custody. Rawalpindi Operations SSP Malik Tariq Mehboob told a presser that preliminary investigations suggested Ayesha’s family disapproved of her TikTok and other social media activities, which had become a major source of conflict within the family. He said evidence gathered so far indicated that Ayesha had allegedly been killed in the name of honour and that her father, brother and other close relatives were allegedly involved in planning the murder. According to the SSP, an attempt was initially made to portray the killing as a blind murder and mislead the police by creating the impression that outsiders were responsible. However, as investigators widened the scope of the probe, evidence began pointing towards members of the victim’s own family. Mehboob said investigators examined footage from more than 100 CCTV cameras and used human intelligence and other sources to establish the circumstances surrounding the murder. The victim’s father and brother were subsequently brought into the investigation, following which details of the alleged planning and the roles of various suspects began to emerge. The SSP said the investigation indicated that Ayesha’s father Fazal, brother Bashir and other close relatives were allegedly involved in the conspiracy. In a surprising development, her father became the complainant in the murder case after her death, allegedly in an attempt to conceal the facts and mislead the law. He further disclosed that an earlier attempt had also allegedly been made to kill Ayesha. The suspects had reportedly planned to target her during a wedding ceremony in Haripur, but she escaped the attack after changing her route. Malik said five suspects had so far been arrested: the victim’s father Fazal, biological brother Bashir, cousin Ahsan, her father’s uncle Rozi Khan and the son of her cousin, Yasin. The two alleged shooters are also in police custody, while one of the arrested suspects has allegedly confessed during interrogation. The SSP said the preliminary investigation indicated that the murder was an alleged honour killing, but the probe was continuing and further significant revelations could emerge. He said investigators would strengthen the evidence against the arrested suspects before submitting the challan to the court.

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K-P CM Afridi vows to lead Sept 27 long march to Islamabad

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi on Saturday vowed to personally lead Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers in the September 27 long march to Islamabad, declaring that the announced date was firm and non-negotiable and that the party would not retreat until achieving its objective. The chief minister made the remarks during a one-day visit to Hangu as part of preparations for the long march. He addressed participants of the PTI’s Street Movement at Hangu Bazaar Chowk and Abu Bakr Siddique Chowk. PTI provincial president Junaid Akbar Khan, Provincial Ministers Shafi Jan and Meena Khan Afridi, and other party leaders and workers also attended the gatherings. Thanking the people and party workers for their participation, Afridi urged them to make comprehensive preparations for the September 27 march. “This time, there is no turning back. We will return victorious on September 27. I will lead you, so be prepared,” he said. The chief minister strongly criticised the alleged failure to implement a Supreme Court order regarding PTI founder Imran Khan’s medical treatment. He claimed that a three-member bench had directed that Imran be provided treatment at Shifa International Hospital, but the order had not been implemented despite the court allowing two days for arrangements. Afridi alleged that the government and administration had disregarded the judicial directive, undermining the authority of the judiciary. He questioned what he described as selective implementation of court orders, saying directives against PTI and its workers were implemented immediately, while the order concerning Imran’s treatment had not been enforced. “There cannot be one law for the weak and another for the powerful in the same country,” he said, urging the judiciary to ensure equal application of the law. He maintained that equal justice was at the heart of Imran’s struggle for real freedom and urged the courts to uphold justice without discrimination. The chief minister also expressed concern over the country’s economic situation, saying public debt had reached Rs97 trillion while ordinary citizens faced inflation and growing financial difficulties. He claimed industrial capital was moving abroad and farmers and the wider population were bearing the consequences of flawed policies. Describing Imran as a symbol of national unity, the chief minister said his return would restore public confidence in state institutions and bring peace. He criticised policies that, he alleged, were resulting in the loss of innocent lives while benefiting a small group of powerful people. He particularly appealed to the youth to participate in the September 27 movement, saying young people constituted around 90 per cent of PTI rally participants. “The youth have to decide the country’s future. They must stand up for their own future,” he said. Afridi also alleged continued repression of PTI workers and women, referring to the Muridke incident and alleged mistreatment of Imran’s sisters.

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8 Pakistan Bar Council members condemn ‘defiance’ of SC order amid Imran Khan’s treatment fiasco

Eight members of the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) on Saturday strongly condemned “the government’s blatant, willful and deliberate violation” of a Supreme Court (SC) August 18 order concerning the medical examination of former prime minister Imran Khan. Three days ago, the SC ordered the government to transfer Imran to Shifa Inte­rn­ati­onal Hospital for examination and treatment by a multidisciplinary medical board. The government instead sent him to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for treatment, drawing the ire of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership and eventually leading to the filing of a contempt of court petition in the apex court today. A press release signed and released by the group under the Pakistan Bar Council Member letterhead said, “We, the undersigned, strongly condemn the blatant, willful and deliberate violation by the government and authorities of the order of the Supreme Court of Pakistan dated 18 August 2026 concerning the shifting, medical examination and treatment of Mr. Imran Khan, former prime inister of Pakistan.” The press release was signed jointly by PBC members Abid Shahid Zuberi, Muhammad Maqsood Buttar, Shafqat Mehmood Chauhan, Munir Ahmed Kakar, Abdul Sattar Khan, Salman Akram Raja, Salahuddin Ahmed and Qazi Muhammad Arshad. Read: PTI files contempt petition in SC over alleged violation of order on Imran's hospital transfer The statement further highlighted that the apex court’s August 18 order was “clear, unequivocal and binding”, which was flouted by the executive in “direct defiance” of the court’s directions. The group emphasised that the executive did not have the authority to defy SC’s directions and orders. Describing the alleged non-compliance as a serious assault on the independence, authority and dignity of the judiciary, it warned that the abeyance undermined the rule of law and “strikes at the very foundation of constitutional governance". Detailing its argument, the PBC members said the incident rendered the constitutional separation of powers meaningless. “Judicial orders are the principal constitutional safeguard against arbitrary state action,” the statement said, adding that failure to comply with SC orders placed the fundamental rights of citizens at risk. Outlining paragraph 14 of the top court’s order, the lawyers argued that the executive was fully aware of the binding nature of the directions and the consequences of non-compliance. The group maintained that the filing of a review petition by the government did not suspend the court’s August 18 order and therefore the executive was not authorised to disregard it. The signatories demanded that those responsible for the alleged violation be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law. Read more: Medical board urges concessions for Imran The statement also criticised the 26th and 27th constitutional amendments, contending that these had eroded the supremacy of the rule of law, the judiciary and the Constitution. It argued that the amendments could not provide constitutional cover for disobedience of a subsisting SC order. “No constitutional amendment, political consideration or executive decision can place the government above a binding judicial command,” the lawyers stressed in the joint statement. They said SC orders could not be held in abeyance at the government’s whim. The statement also drew comparisons between the treatment afforded to other ex-premiers and political leaders facing criminal convictions. It said a former premier had been allowed to travel abroad for medical treatment pursuant to a court order and an undertaking executed on Rs50 stamp paper, referring to PML-N President Nawaz Sharif's flight abroad from prison. The lawyers questioned whether constitutional protections relating to life, health, dignity and access to medical treatment were being applied selectively based on the political circumstances of an individual. In concluding remarks, the members of the PBC called for the complete implementation of the apex court’s August 18 order and urged that those “responsible for defiance be dealt with strictly” in accordance with the law. Similarly, the Sindh High Court Bar Association Karachi (SHCBAK) also described Imran’s treatment at PIMS as “brazen defiance of the SC’s order by executive and [Adiala] jail authorities”. In a statement issued on the association’s letterhead, SHCBAK President Muhammad Haseeb Jamali said the executive and government functionaries were constitutionally bound to comply with judicial orders. He referred to Articles 5 and 190 of the Constitution, arguing that the former obliged citizens to act in accordance with the Constitution and law, while the latter required executive authorities to act in aid of the SC. The bar association also maintained that access to medical treatment was a fundamental human right that could not be denied to prisoners. In the context of the aforesaid, the SHCBAK president reminded the government about the principles of “tracheotomy of power” whereby judicial orders are binding on all and lamented that the recent incident of the SC’s order abeyance was not in line with it. The statement issued by him also alleged that the 26th and 27th amendments to the Constitution rendered the judiciary a “subordinate” of the executive. He contested that the recent violation of SC directions in Imran’s case was a prime example of it. Recalling that the judiciary was one of the three pillars of the state, the association called on the executive authorities, including Adiala jail officials, to immediately comply with the SC’s order and ensure Imran’s medical treatment as mandated by the apex court. It further urged the top court to take “strict legal action against all delinquent officers” found responsible for non-compliance. PBC VC disowns statement issued by 8-member group Separately, the PBC distanced itself from the statement issued by eight of its members, stressing that the views solely reflected individual opinions which could not be construed as the collective position of the country’s top representative body of lawyers. In a statement issued today by the PBC secretary, its vice chairman said, “It is clarified that the statement issued by eight out of the 23 members of the Pakistan Bar Council represents the views of those individual members and cannot be treated as the collective position of the Pakistan Bar Council.” Also Read: Two specialists from Shifa International Hospital participated in Imran's eye assessment: PIMS The 23-member council also underscored that it was governed by “democratic principles” that disallowed the minority from dictating the position of the majority. “The Pakistan Bar Council is an institution of the legal fraternity and must remain above political interests and personal agendas. Neither the platform of the Pakistan Bar Council nor that of the superior judiciary should be politicised or used for any ulterior motives,” the statement read further. The PBC also strongly condemned a separate statement issued by the Lahore High Court Bar Association, saying it categorically distanced itself from such statements. “These statements do not reflect the collective views, position, or policy of the legal fraternity and the institution,” it said. The PBC, which is the largest representative body of lawyers in Pakistan, reiterated that bar representatives should not use the council’s platform to further personal political agendas. The council said it remained firmly committed to the rule of law, independence of the judiciary, supremacy of the Constitution and the sanctity of constitutional institutions. The refutation also highlighted that the lawyers’ body expected “all members” to respect these fundamental principles and uphold the dignity and institutional autonomy of the PBC. Balochistan High Court Bar Association (BHCBA) President Mir Attaullah Lango also slammed the press statement issued by the eight PBC members, calling it “misleading and controversial”. Advocate Lango said differences and political matters within the lawyers’ community should remain confined to it and should not be allowed to affect or undermine the collective institutions of lawyers. The BHCBA president said collective platforms of the legal community should not be used to serve the interests of any individual or group. “Controversial statements in support of a particular person should be avoided,” Lango stressed. He said that history was a witness that lawyers’ politics had never served the interests of an individual; thereby, the benchmark should not be compromised. Advocate Lango vowed not to let lawyers’ representative organisation be used for group interests or personal agendas “under any circumstances”. Punjab legal fraternity exchange barbs after Imran’s treatment sparks row A stark divide among the members of the Punjab legal fraternity was also observed as an Imran Khan-supporting group warned of protests over what they described as the government’s failure to fully implement the SC’s directions regarding his medical treatment, while the other distanced itself from the statement, maintaining neutrality to allow the courts to determine sub judice matters on their legal merit. Speaking at a press conference at the Lahore High Court Bar Association (LHCBA), Imran’s counsel Barrister Salman Safdar said the federal top court’s recent order regarding his client’s medical treatment was in accordance with the constitution and law and should be implemented in letter and spirit. Safdar alleged that despite repeated judicial directions, Imran had been denied basic facilities by the government and kept in isolation. He also lamented that the former premier’s cases were not being fixed for hearing at a feasible frequency. Referring to a 2022 meeting with Imran, Safdar said, “The PTI founder had foretold that several cases would be registered against him,” adding that he was appalled that more than 400 cases were filed against the former cricketer turned politician. “Imran never attempted to evade the legal process, but he is not being provided adequate opportunities to properly defend himself,” the barrister maintained. Reiterating the claims of prolonged isolation in jail faced by Imran and his wife, the legal counsel submitted that the ex-premier’s health succumbed to circumstances. “The former prime minister’s eyesight deteriorated during his confinement,” he said while claiming that jail authorities confirmed it, though the government still refutes it. The barrister argued that the SC’s rulings were not being properly implemented to provide reprieve to Imran. Appalled by the treatment meted out to the former premier, he reminded the authorities, “Imran Khan is neither a terrorist nor involved in any case against the state.” Acknowledging that the PTI founder had been convicted in the Toshakhana case, Safdar claimed delayed hearings of Imran’s pending cases. Citing an example, the legal counsel asserted, “A bail petition before the Islamabad High Court had remained pending for around 18 months.” He warned that a continuous denial of justice would undermine public confidence in the legal system. During the press conference, LHCBA President Babar Murtaza also seconded Safdar’s opinion, calling it a denial of Imran’s fundamental rights. He stated that the PTI founder had spent around 10 months in solitary confinement that caused his poor health. Reverting the discussion towards alleged flouting of the SC order by the government, Murtaza reminded that the top court had passed directions after assessing Imran’s medical summary. He said that failure to comply with the order could amount to contempt of court. The bar leader warned that the legal fraternity would launch protests and stage a sit-in outside the Punjab Assembly if the court’s directions are not implemented. Senator Hamid Khan also voiced concerns over the alleged non-compliance with the judicial decision, warning that continued disregard for court orders would fuel unrest and undermine the rule of law. “Interference in judicial affairs is weakening the independence of the judiciary.” The senator reiterated the fears expressed by the PTI founder that his health was being compromised in custody. He also highlighted the possibility of serious consequences if adequate medical treatment was not provided to the former PM. Separately, Punjab Bar Council Vice Chairman Chaudhry Qaiser Nazir Ahmed Sahi and Executive Committee Chairman Chaudhry Arshad Ali Hanjra said the recent statements issued by “some members of the Pakistan Bar Council and Punjab Bar Council represented their personal views”. In a joint statement issued to the media, they contested that the statement by a handful of lawyers could not be treated as the collective position of the legal fraternity or the two bar councils. The council leaders also urged bar councils, bar associations and their representatives to exercise restraint while commenting on matters that were sub judice. “The Punjab Bar Council stressed that, with regard to matters that are sub judice, bar councils, bar associations and their representatives should refrain from issuing statements that could potentially influence judicial proceedings, undermine institutional independence or affect public confidence,” the statement issued by the council’s secretary, on behalf of the duo, read. The two officials called upon all stakeholders to respect the judicial process and allow the courts to determine sub judice matters on their legal and constitutional merits.

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8 Pakistan Bar Council members condemn ‘defiance’ of SC order amid Imran Khan’s treatment fiasco

Eight members of the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) on Saturday strongly condemned “the government’s blatant, willful and deliberate violation” of a Supreme Court (SC) August 18 order concerning the medical examination of former prime minister Imran Khan. Three days ago, the SC ordered the government to transfer Imran to Shifa Inte­rn­ati­onal Hospital for examination and treatment by a multidisciplinary medical board. The government instead sent him to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for treatment, drawing the ire of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership and eventually leading to the filing of a contempt of court petition in the apex court today. A press release signed and released by the group under the Pakistan Bar Council Member letterhead said, “We, the undersigned, strongly condemn the blatant, willful and deliberate violation by the government and authorities of the order of the Supreme Court of Pakistan dated 18 August 2026 concerning the shifting, medical examination and treatment of Mr. Imran Khan, former prime inister of Pakistan.” The press release was signed jointly by PBC members Abid Shahid Zuberi, Muhammad Maqsood Buttar, Shafqat Mehmood Chauhan, Munir Ahmed Kakar, Abdul Sattar Khan, Salman Akram Raja, Salahuddin Ahmed and Qazi Muhammad Arshad. Read: PTI files contempt petition in SC over alleged violation of order on Imran's hospital transfer The statement further highlighted that the apex court’s August 18 order was “clear, unequivocal and binding”, which was flouted by the executive in “direct defiance” of the court’s directions. The group emphasised that the executive did not have the authority to defy SC’s directions and orders. Describing the alleged non-compliance as a serious assault on the independence, authority and dignity of the judiciary, it warned that the abeyance undermined the rule of law and “strikes at the very foundation of constitutional governance". Detailing its argument, the PBC members said the incident rendered the constitutional separation of powers meaningless. “Judicial orders are the principal constitutional safeguard against arbitrary state action,” the statement said, adding that failure to comply with SC orders placed the fundamental rights of citizens at risk. Outlining paragraph 14 of the top court’s order, the lawyers argued that the executive was fully aware of the binding nature of the directions and the consequences of non-compliance. The group maintained that the filing of a review petition by the government did not suspend the court’s August 18 order and therefore the executive was not authorised to disregard it. The signatories demanded that those responsible for the alleged violation be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law. Read more: Medical board urges concessions for Imran The statement also criticised the 26th and 27th constitutional amendments, contending that these had eroded the supremacy of the rule of law, the judiciary and the Constitution. It argued that the amendments could not provide constitutional cover for disobedience of a subsisting SC order. “No constitutional amendment, political consideration or executive decision can place the government above a binding judicial command,” the lawyers stressed in the joint statement. They said SC orders could not be held in abeyance at the government’s whim. The statement also drew comparisons between the treatment afforded to other ex-premiers and political leaders facing criminal convictions. It said a former premier had been allowed to travel abroad for medical treatment pursuant to a court order and an undertaking executed on Rs50 stamp paper, referring to PML-N President Nawaz Sharif's flight abroad from prison. The lawyers questioned whether constitutional protections relating to life, health, dignity and access to medical treatment were being applied selectively based on the political circumstances of an individual. In concluding remarks, the members of the PBC called for the complete implementation of the apex court’s August 18 order and urged that those “responsible for defiance be dealt with strictly” in accordance with the law. Similarly, the Sindh High Court Bar Association Karachi (SHCBAK) also described Imran’s treatment at PIMS as “brazen defiance of the SC’s order by executive and [Adiala] jail authorities”. In a statement issued on the association’s letterhead, SHCBAK President Muhammad Haseeb Jamali said the executive and government functionaries were constitutionally bound to comply with judicial orders. He referred to Articles 5 and 190 of the Constitution, arguing that the former obliged citizens to act in accordance with the Constitution and law, while the latter required executive authorities to act in aid of the SC. The bar association also maintained that access to medical treatment was a fundamental human right that could not be denied to prisoners. In the context of the aforesaid, the SHCBAK president reminded the government about the principles of “tracheotomy of power” whereby judicial orders are binding on all and lamented that the recent incident of the SC’s order abeyance was not in line with it. The statement issued by him also alleged that the 26th and 27th amendments to the Constitution rendered the judiciary a “subordinate” of the executive. He contested that the recent violation of SC directions in Imran’s case was a prime example of it. Recalling that the judiciary was one of the three pillars of the state, the association called on the executive authorities, including Adiala jail officials, to immediately comply with the SC’s order and ensure Imran’s medical treatment as mandated by the apex court. It further urged the top court to take “strict legal action against all delinquent officers” found responsible for non-compliance. PBC VC disowns statement issued by 8-member group Separately, the PBC distanced itself from the statement issued by eight of its members, stressing that the views solely reflected individual opinions which could not be construed as the collective position of the country’s top representative body of lawyers. In a statement issued today by the PBC secretary, its vice chairman said, “It is clarified that the statement issued by eight out of the 23 members of the Pakistan Bar Council represents the views of those individual members and cannot be treated as the collective position of the Pakistan Bar Council.” Also Read: Two specialists from Shifa International Hospital participated in Imran's eye assessment: PIMS The 23-member council also underscored that it was governed by “democratic principles” that disallowed the minority from dictating the position of the majority. “The Pakistan Bar Council is an institution of the legal fraternity and must remain above political interests and personal agendas. Neither the platform of the Pakistan Bar Council nor that of the superior judiciary should be politicised or used for any ulterior motives,” the statement read further. The PBC also strongly condemned a separate statement issued by the Lahore High Court Bar Association, saying it categorically distanced itself from such statements. “These statements do not reflect the collective views, position, or policy of the legal fraternity and the institution,” it said. The PBC, which is the largest representative body of lawyers in Pakistan, reiterated that bar representatives should not use the council’s platform to further personal political agendas. The council said it remained firmly committed to the rule of law, independence of the judiciary, supremacy of the Constitution and the sanctity of constitutional institutions. The refutation also highlighted that the lawyers’ body expected “all members” to respect these fundamental principles and uphold the dignity and institutional autonomy of the PBC. Balochistan High Court Bar Association (BHCBA) President Mir Attaullah Lango also slammed the press statement issued by the eight PBC members, calling it “misleading and controversial”. Advocate Lango said differences and political matters within the lawyers’ community should remain confined to it and should not be allowed to affect or undermine the collective institutions of lawyers. The BHCBA president said collective platforms of the legal community should not be used to serve the interests of any individual or group. “Controversial statements in support of a particular person should be avoided,” Lango stressed. He said that history was a witness that lawyers’ politics had never served the interests of an individual; thereby, the benchmark should not be compromised. Advocate Lango vowed not to let lawyers’ representative organisation be used for group interests or personal agendas “under any circumstances”. Punjab legal fraternity exchange barbs after Imran’s treatment sparks row A stark divide among the members of the Punjab legal fraternity was also observed as an Imran Khan-supporting group warned of protests over what they described as the government’s failure to fully implement the SC’s directions regarding his medical treatment, while the other distanced itself from the statement, maintaining neutrality to allow the courts to determine sub judice matters on their legal merit. Speaking at a press conference at the Lahore High Court Bar Association (LHCBA), Imran’s counsel Barrister Salman Safdar said the federal top court’s recent order regarding his client’s medical treatment was in accordance with the constitution and law and should be implemented in letter and spirit. Safdar alleged that despite repeated judicial directions, Imran had been denied basic facilities by the government and kept in isolation. He also lamented that the former premier’s cases were not being fixed for hearing at a feasible frequency. Referring to a 2022 meeting with Imran, Safdar said, “The PTI founder had foretold that several cases would be registered against him,” adding that he was appalled that more than 400 cases were filed against the former cricketer turned politician. “Imran never attempted to evade the legal process, but he is not being provided adequate opportunities to properly defend himself,” the barrister maintained. Reiterating the claims of prolonged isolation in jail faced by Imran and his wife, the legal counsel submitted that the ex-premier’s health succumbed to circumstances. “The former prime minister’s eyesight deteriorated during his confinement,” he said while claiming that jail authorities confirmed it, though the government still refutes it. The barrister argued that the SC’s rulings were not being properly implemented to provide reprieve to Imran. Appalled by the treatment meted out to the former premier, he reminded the authorities, “Imran Khan is neither a terrorist nor involved in any case against the state.” Acknowledging that the PTI founder had been convicted in the Toshakhana case, Safdar claimed delayed hearings of Imran’s pending cases. Citing an example, the legal counsel asserted, “A bail petition before the Islamabad High Court had remained pending for around 18 months.” He warned that a continuous denial of justice would undermine public confidence in the legal system. During the press conference, LHCBA President Babar Murtaza also seconded Safdar’s opinion, calling it a denial of Imran’s fundamental rights. He stated that the PTI founder had spent around 10 months in solitary confinement that caused his poor health. Reverting the discussion towards alleged flouting of the SC order by the government, Murtaza reminded that the top court had passed directions after assessing Imran’s medical summary. He said that failure to comply with the order could amount to contempt of court. The bar leader warned that the legal fraternity would launch protests and stage a sit-in outside the Punjab Assembly if the court’s directions are not implemented. Senator Hamid Khan also voiced concerns over the alleged non-compliance with the judicial decision, warning that continued disregard for court orders would fuel unrest and undermine the rule of law. “Interference in judicial affairs is weakening the independence of the judiciary.” The senator reiterated the fears expressed by the PTI founder that his health was being compromised in custody. He also highlighted the possibility of serious consequences if adequate medical treatment was not provided to the former PM. Separately, Punjab Bar Council Vice Chairman Chaudhry Qaiser Nazir Ahmed Sahi and Executive Committee Chairman Chaudhry Arshad Ali Hanjra said the recent statements issued by “some members of the Pakistan Bar Council and Punjab Bar Council represented their personal views”. In a joint statement issued to the media, they contested that the statement by a handful of lawyers could not be treated as the collective position of the legal fraternity or the two bar councils. The council leaders also urged bar councils, bar associations and their representatives to exercise restraint while commenting on matters that were sub judice. “The Punjab Bar Council stressed that, with regard to matters that are sub judice, bar councils, bar associations and their representatives should refrain from issuing statements that could potentially influence judicial proceedings, undermine institutional independence or affect public confidence,” the statement issued by the council’s secretary, on behalf of the duo, read. The two officials called upon all stakeholders to respect the judicial process and allow the courts to determine sub judice matters on their legal and constitutional merits.

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