LAHORE: The Punjab government on Monday told the Lahore High Court (LHC) that Aleema Khan, a sister of PTI founder Imran Khan, had been provided basic facilities and essential items in jail.

Aleema was detained on Sep 20 after the Lahore deputy commissioner ordered her detention or arrest under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance.

The detention has come amid reports of a crackdown on the PTI ahead of its countrywide protest and march to Islamabad, which the party has postponed to Oct 4. The protest has been called to demand Imran’s release from jail and mobilise people for the supremacy of the Constitution.

Assistant Advocate General Farrukh Khan Lodhi submitted a report on behalf of the Kot Lakhpat jail superintendent during the hearing of a petition filed by Shahrez Khan, Aleema’s son.

According to the report, Aleema had been provided with a bedsheet, blanket, shoes, six suits and a towel. She was also given face wash, a toothbrush, a skincare kit and a shawl, it added.

In light of the government’s report, Justice Abher Gul Khan disposed of the petition.

The judge also directed the home secretary to decide, in accordance with the law, on the petitioner’s request seeking permission to meet Aleema.

At the last hearing on Sept 26, Barrister Taimur Malik had told the court that his client, Aleema, was facing difficulties in receiving her medicines and other essentials in jail.

Aleema’s sisters, Dr Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi, have also been detained for 30 days ahead of the PTI’s protest and march to Islamabad.

On Sept 24, the LHC turned down a request to immediately suspend the preventive detention notifications issued against Noreen and Uzma.