ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has ordered prison officials to arrange a meeting between prominent lawyer Salman Akram Raja and PTI founder Imran Khan on the same day as the hearing.
The order was issued by Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir while hearing a petition concerning the blocking of the PTI founder’s X (formerly Twitter) account. Raja represented Imran Khan in court, with Khan’s sister Aleema Khan also in attendance.
Prison authorities presented their report during the proceedings, and the court instructed that copies be distributed to all relevant parties. The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency requested more time to file its response.
Salman Akram Raja told the court he was unable to proceed without first consulting his client. “I don’t have access to the PTI founder; I can only respond after discussing the matter with him,” he said.
When Justice Arbab asked whether Raja could proceed on his own authority, the lawyer emphasized the need for direct consultation with Imran Khan.
Raja raised concerns that he had been denied access to Khan despite verbal instructions from an IHC full bench. Justice Arbab acknowledged that while the bench had issued directions, Raja may not have received the formal written order.
The court then ordered prison officials to ensure the meeting takes place. When Raja requested that it be scheduled for that same day, Justice Arbab granted the request and instructed the Deputy Attorney General and state counsel to immediately contact prison authorities by phone.
Raja noted that previous court orders had been disregarded, stating, “We will keep trying—one day this door will open. For the past seven to eight months, court orders have been continuously ignored.”
Following the approval for the meeting, the court adjourned the proceedings to allow Raja time to consult with Imran Khan before the next hearing.
