The superintendent of Adiala Jail has opposed a request for meetings between Bushra Bibi and her family members, citing concerns that prison visits were being used for political messaging outside the jail.
In a written report submitted to the Islamabad High Court, the jail administration stated that family meetings were followed by public statements and social media activity, which it said was affecting prison discipline and security.
The matter was heard by Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir on a petition filed by Bushra Bibi’s daughter, Mubashra Maneka, seeking regular meetings, access to a private doctor, and basic facilities.
The jail superintendent, Sajid Baig, and the Advocate General Islamabad appeared before the court. The jail report referred to alleged social media posts linked to Bushra Bibi’s sister after family meetings, raising concerns over prison management.
The Advocate General informed the court that the request had been reviewed and declined for now, though it was not a permanent restriction and could be reconsidered later.
Counsel for the petitioner argued that the objections were based on external social media activity and questioned the grounds for restricting family access, stating that the individual cited had not visited the jail.
Superintendent Baig told the court that Adiala Jail currently houses around 7,200 inmates and that meetings are held six days a week under the jail manual and prison management system.
The court observed that the system appeared structured and stressed the need for compliance with prison rules and fairness. It directed authorities to facilitate a meeting between Bushra Bibi and her daughter where possible and adjourned the hearing until May 14.
