Imran Khan, Pakistan’s jailed former prime minister, asserted on Tuesday that his wife and former first lady, Bushra Bibi, had been poisoned while detained at his private residence, converted into a sub-jail.
He emphasised that if any harm befell her, the responsibility should lie with the army chief.
During the hearing of the 190 million pound Toshakhana corruption case at Adiala jail, Khan informed Judge Nasir Javed Rana about the alleged poisoning incident. He claimed that his wife exhibited marks on her skin and tongue as evidence of the poisoning.
“I know who is behind it,” Khan stated, according to The Express Tribune newspaper.
Khan attributed the control over his residence and the Adiala jail to an intelligence agency, holding the Pakistan Army chief accountable for any harm to Bushra. He urged the court to order a medical examination of Bushra by Dr Asim of Shaukat Khanum Hospital, expressing distrust in the earlier examination.
In response to the former premier’s plea, the court instructed Khan to submit a comprehensive application regarding the medical examination of the former first lady.
Bushra alleges “American Agent”
Speaking to the media after the hearing, Bushra addressed circulating rumours within the party alleging her affiliation as an “American agent” and claimed to have been poisoned with a common toilet cleaner.
Describing the alleged poisoning incident, Bushra stated that “three drops” of the toilet cleaner were added to her food, resulting in symptoms such as swollen eyes, chest and stomach discomfort, and a bitter taste in food and water. She revealed that someone in jail informed her about the substances added to her food but declined to disclose names.
Bushra informed the court about her decent treatment at the Bani Gala sub-jail but expressed dissatisfaction with the restriction on opening windows for a period.
Previously, PTI had raised concerns about Bushra being fed “poisonous food” during her detention, citing her severe discomfort.
A PTI spokesperson voiced apprehensions about the threats to Bushra’s life due to the denial of her constitutional right to a medical examination. Allegations were made against Bushra Bibi’s family being barred from visiting her, deemed a violation of both the Constitution and jail regulations.
Regarding Bushra Bibi’s conviction in the Toshakhana corruption case, Khan’s PTI party asserted her innocence, portraying the conviction as an attempt to pressure the former prime minister.
Meanwhile, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan condemned Bushra Bibi’s treatment as political victimization, expressing concerns about her safety and health. He warned of holding powerful circles accountable for any harm to her.
Since his removal from power in April 2022, Khan has faced convictions in at least four cases, including the cypher case.
(With PTI inputs)