LHC seeks arguments on maintainability of petition against Aleema Khan’s detention

The Lahore High Court recently sought arguments on the validity of the detention of Aleema Khan and her driver, who were arrested under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance. The detention came after the Lahore Deputy Commissioner ordered their detention for 30 days, citing a police report that claimed they were "prejudicial to public safety and maintenance of public order."

The report also mentioned that Aleema and Ameer had been involved in roadblocks and protests on May 9, 2023, when PTI supporters took to the streets against Imran Khan's arrest. The court was hearing a petition filed by Aleema's son, Shahraiz Khan, who challenged the detention orders. During the hearing, the court asked whether the petitioner had approached relevant authorities first, to which counsel responded that the situation differed from others, as the arrest had already taken place before the DIC meeting and issuance of the detention notification.

The court reserved its decision on the maintainability of the petition and adjourned the hearing until September 25 for further arguments. The detention of Aleema and her family took place amid reports of a crackdown on the PTI ahead of its September 27 nationwide protest against Imran Khan's arrest and to demand his release from jail.