Three sisters of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan were detained as authorities intensified efforts to suppress a planned nationwide protest demanding his release. Aleema Khan, Uzma Khan, and Noreen Niazi were arrested amid a sweeping government crackdown targeting supporters of Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.

Since Khan’s incarceration on corruption charges in 2023, his sisters have emerged as prominent advocates calling for his freedom. According to their lawyer, all three were remanded into custody for 30 days on allegations of posing a threat to public order.

PTI leaders condemned the arrests, describing the detentions as “illegal harassment” aimed at weakening opposition momentum and silencing dissent ahead of the demonstrations. The party has consistently maintained that Khan’s detention is politically motivated.

Khan’s family also accused authorities of subjecting him to harsh conditions during his imprisonment. They claim he has been kept in solitary confinement and denied visitation rights for over six months. Additionally, they allege he has been obstructed from receiving necessary medical treatment, raising concerns among human rights advocates.

The government has not publicly commented on the specific charges against Khan’s sisters or addressed the family’s allegations regarding his treatment in custody. The unfolding situation highlights the ongoing political tensions in Pakistan as the ruling establishment confronts mounting challenges from the opposition.