Islamabad: According to a top Pakistani judge who cited an intelligence report, Imran Khan's life is in danger because of worries about another assassination attempt on the politician.
The comments were made by Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Aamer Farooq during a hearing on a petition brought forth by a group of traders regarding road closures in the capital during political protests.
Earlier this month, Khan, 70, was shot in the leg by an attacker in the city of Wazirabad while holding a “long march” to Islamabad to demand immediate elections.
A supporter of Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) was killed and more than a dozen others wounded in the attack, forcing the party to suspend its march. Imran has accused Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah and military officer General Faisal Naseer of plotting the attack.
Khan did not offer any proof to support his claims, which were denied by the army and the government. The police have detained the suspect and are questioning him.
When Khan rejoins the march to Islamabad, there may be a chance for another attack, according to an intelligence report the police presented to the court during the hearing.
Judge Farooq also asked the PTI to submit a new application to seek permission to hold its rally in Islamabad. He urged the police to ensure the security of the marchers when they reach the city.
Khan, who is recuperating from his bullet wound at his residence in Lahore, has been addressing the marchers through a video link after the “long march” resumed on November 10.
