LAHORE: The Lahore High Court on Thursday declined a request for immediate suspension of the detention notifications issued against PTI founder Imran Khan’s sisters, Dr Uzma Khanum and Noreen Niazi, while issuing notices to the respondents and seeking their replies.
LHC Hears Petitions Against Detention
Justice Abher Gul Khan heard the petitions challenging the detention orders. Dr Uzma Khanum and Noreen Niazi were represented by Advocate Rana Mudassar Umar and Barrister Taimur, while Advocate Farrukh Lodhi appeared on behalf of the Punjab government.
Counsel Seeks Immediate Suspension
During the hearing, Justice Abher Gul Khan indicated that reports could first be sought from the relevant respondents. Counsel Rana Mudassar Umar, however, requested time to present facts before the court and sought immediate suspension of the detention notification.
Petitioners’ Counsel Presents Arguments
The petitioners’ counsel argued that both women were housewives and maintained that Dr Uzma Khanum had previously been declared innocent in a case registered against her. He also referred to a trial court decision, stating that a copy had been placed on the record.
Court Issues Notices to Respondents
After hearing the preliminary arguments, the court declined to immediately suspend the detention notification and instead issued notices to the respondents, seeking their replies.
The petitions were filed by Noreen Niazi’s daughter Sakina and others through Advocate Rana Mudassar Umar. They have asked the court to set aside the detention orders issued by the deputy commissioner.
Detention Under Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance
Earlier reports said Dr Uzma Khanum and Noreen Niazi had been detained under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance and shifted to Kot Lakhpat Jail. Their detention orders have subsequently been challenged before the Lahore High Court.