LHC disposes of plea as Punjab government extends detention of Imran Khan's sisters by 30 days

The Punjab government extended the administrative detention of Aleema Khan, Uzma Khan, and Noreen Niazi for thirty days. Justice Abher Gul Khan of the Lahore High Court (LHC) heard the petition seeking their immediate judicial recovery. During the court proceedings, the Punjab Home Secretary and the Superintendent of Kot Lakhpat Jail appeared before the bench. Consequently, the provincial Home Department submitted an official progress report confirming the administrative decision to extend their detention. The legal development extends the continuous detention of the sisters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder Imran Khan. Read More: LHC moved for release of Imran's sisters as detention period ends The state counsel informed the honorable court that the Deputy Commissioner initially recommended the extension to the provincial government. Acting upon the administrative recommendation, the Punjab government formally authorized the detention extension on October 7. Furthermore, the government prosecutor clarified that all procedural requirements under public order maintenance laws were followed. Therefore, the provincial administration maintained that the detention extension remains essential for preserving public order across the province. During the hearing, Justice Abher Gul Khan addressed the legal counsel representing the petitioner regarding procedural flaws in the filing. The court noted that the petitioner failed to nominate the Deputy Commissioner as a respondent in the main petition. Furthermore, the judge emphasized that the court cannot issue legal orders beyond the scope of the submitted application. The bench explained that administrative notifications issued by the Deputy Commissioner must be challenged through proper legal representation. Consequently, the High Court directed the legal team to follow established procedural frameworks. Following the submission of the Home Secretary's detailed report, the Lahore High Court officially disposed of the recovery petition. Legal representatives of the petitioner indicated that they will challenge the new detention notification through appropriate legal channels. Meanwhile, party supporters and legal teams expressed deep concern regarding the continuous detention of the female family members. However, state representatives maintained that law enforcement agencies act strictly in accordance with statutory regulations. Read More: Imran Khan's sisters detained under 3MPO in Lahore Legal experts note that administrative detentions under maintenance of public order regulations are subject to judicial review. The petitioner's defense team plans to file a revised petition incorporating all administrative authorities as official respondents. Meanwhile, prison officials affirmed that all detained individuals receive standard legal facilities and medical care as prescribed by jail rules. International observers and civil rights advocates continue to monitor legal proceedings surrounding high-profile political detentions in Pakistan. Ultimately, the high court's ruling concludes the current procedural phase of the recovery petition.