IHC directs authorities to present Imran Khan before court at 3pm today

The Islamabad High Court has directed the Adiala jail authorities to present Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan beofre it today (Thursday) at 3pm in a contempt case. 

Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan heard the case, which revolves around the incarcerated former prime minister's inability to meet with his lawyers in Rawalpindi prison.

Faisal Chaudhry represented the petitioner, while Additional Attorney General Mansoor Iqbal Dogal appeared for the state.

The court questioned whether the government could halt justice through a notification, which was issued earlier by the Punjab government to bar meetings in Adiala jail from October 21 to 25.

Justice Sardar asked the State Council to explain that hearings weren't being held, thus "no meetings were granted".

Justice Sardar further said that the court order was violated via notification, which he deemed a contempt of court. 

The State Council responded that the ban was imposed in line with security threats post-October 3. 

However, the court countered that security concerns don't justify denying lawyers access.

"This notification is a violation of my orders... why were lawyers not allowed to meet [Imran Khan]?" the judge questioned.

He further demanded an explanation from the Ministry of Interior regarding the security threat that barred lawyers from meeting the veteran politician.

The IHC also ordered an online meeting between Imran Khan and his lawyers but faced objection from the Additional Attorney General. 

Later, Justice Sardar instructed the authorities to make security arrangements and produce Imran Khan in court.

The court has ordered Imran Khan's presentation in the contempt of court case at 3pm today, ensuring a meeting with his lawyers.