In a move that has captured national attention, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan has once again been ordered to undergo a polygraph (lie detector) test. The directive, reportedly issued in connection with an ongoing investigation or legal matter, reflects a rare instance in Pakistan’s judicial history where such a method of inquiry is being suggested for a high-profile political figure.
Although polygraph tests are not typically part of the country's standard legal proceedings, their inclusion signals the seriousness of the allegations and the level of public and judicial scrutiny surrounding Imran Khan in recent months.
Context Behind the Test
The order to undergo a lie detector test has reportedly been linked to one of several high-profile cases in which Khan is entangled. While the specific case or allegation prompting this latest development has not been officially confirmed, there is speculation that it may involve accusations related to national security, confidential communications, or manipulation of facts during his tenure.
Imran Khan, who has been incarcerated since 2023 on various legal charges including the Toshakhana reference and the cipher case, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. His legal team maintains that the charges are politically motivated and part of a broader campaign to eliminate him from the political arena.
The reissuance of the lie detector test order is seen by many as an attempt to corner Khan in a more scientifically measurable way — though the reliability and admissibility of such tests in court remain a subject of debate.
What Is a Lie Detector Test and How Reliable Is It?
A polygraph test, commonly referred to as a lie detector, measures physiological indicators such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and skin conductivity while a person answers questions. The underlying theory is that deceptive answers will produce physiological responses that can be detected and recorded.
However, the scientific community remains divided over the accuracy of polygraph tests. While some agencies — particularly intelligence and law enforcement bodies — use them as investigative tools, courts in many countries are hesitant to accept polygraph results as definitive evidence due to concerns about false positives and test reliability.
In Pakistan, polygraph tests are rarely used in high-profile legal proceedings, especially in politically sensitive cases. Therefore, this directive is being seen not only as unusual but also as symbolic — potentially aimed more at influencing public perception than producing hard legal evidence.
Political Ramifications
Imran Khan's supporters see the renewed demand for a polygraph test as yet another tactic to discredit their leader. PTI officials have already criticized the move, labeling it “a media stunt” and “a violation of Khan’s legal and human rights.” They argue that no such test has ever been demanded of former prime ministers or political leaders in Pakistan’s history, and that singling out Khan in this way sets a dangerous precedent.
On the other hand, critics of Khan view the polygraph directive as an opportunity to hold him accountable through unconventional but revealing means. They argue that if Khan is indeed innocent, as he claims, then he should have no hesitation in submitting to the test — especially if it helps resolve ongoing controversies.
Legal and Ethical Concerns
Legal experts are raising valid concerns about the admissibility of such tests in Pakistani courts. Under current Pakistani law, the Constitution guarantees protection from self-incrimination. There is also ambiguity over whether results from a polygraph test can be used as formal evidence in a criminal trial.
Moreover, there is no established legal framework in Pakistan that regulates the administration of such tests, raising questions about fairness, consent, and the qualifications of those conducting them.
Conclusion
The order for Imran Khan to undergo a lie detector test — for a second time — adds a new and dramatic chapter to Pakistan’s turbulent political saga. Whether this move leads to any concrete legal consequences or merely fuels further political drama remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that the use of such a rarely applied investigative tool signals an intensifying legal campaign against one of the country’s most influential political figures.
As the story develops, Pakistan’s public and political observers will be watching closely — not only for the outcome of the test (if conducted) but also for what it reveals about the evolving standards of justice and political accountability in the country.
Reference: عمران خان کا جھوٹ بولنے والی مشین پر ٹیسٹ کرانے کا دوبارہ حکم
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