Qaidi no 804: The Story of Imran Khan’s Prison Number
Do you know who is Qaidi no 804, قیدی نمبر 804? If you are a fan of Imran Khan, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, you might have heard this number before. It is the prison number that Imran Khan was given when he was jailed in Attock Fort in 2000. This number has become a symbol of his struggle and resilience against the corrupt and oppressive regimes of the past.
How did Imran Khan become Qaidi no 804?
Imran Khan is a former cricketer and the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), a political party that aims to bring justice and accountability to Pakistan. He has been a vocal critic of the military and civilian governments that have ruled Pakistan for decades. He has also been a champion of democracy and human rights.
In 1999, General Pervez Musharraf staged a coup and overthrew the elected government of Nawaz Sharif. Imran Khan opposed the coup and demanded the restoration of democracy. He also exposed the corruption and mismanagement of Musharraf and his allies.
In 2000, Imran Khan was arrested for leading a protest against Musharraf’s referendum to extend his rule. He was taken to Attock Fort, a notorious prison where many political prisoners have been tortured and killed. He was given the number 804 and kept in solitary confinement for eight days.
How did Imran Khan survive Qaidi no 804?
Imran Khan faced many hardships and challenges as Qaidi no 804. He was denied basic facilities and subjected to mental and physical abuse. He was also offered bribes and threats to join Musharraf’s camp or quit politics.
However, Imran Khan did not give up or give in. He remained steadfast and determined in his principles and vision. He used his time in prison to read books, write letters, and pray. He also drew strength from his supporters and well-wishers who rallied outside the prison and chanted slogans in his favor.
Imran Khan was released from prison after eight days, but he continued his struggle for democracy and justice. He faced many more arrests, bans, attacks, and allegations in the following years. He also faced many setbacks and disappointments in the elections.
How did Imran Khan overcome Qaidi no 804?
Imran Khan finally achieved his dream of becoming the Prime Minister of Pakistan in 2018, after winning the general elections with a majority of seats. He became the first Prime Minister who had been jailed by a military dictator.
Imran Khan has not forgotten his experience as Qaidi number 804. He has used it as a motivation and inspiration to serve the people of Pakistan with honesty and integrity. He has also vowed to end corruption, poverty, injustice, and terrorism in Pakistan.
Imran Khan has also paid tribute to his fellow prisoners who suffered with him in Attock Fort. He has named his residence in Islamabad as Zaman Park, after one of his cellmates who died in prison. He has also named his official helicopter as Qaidi no 804, as a reminder of his past.
Qaidi number 804 is not just a number for Imran Khan. It is a story of courage, conviction, and commitment. It is a story of hope, change, and transformation. It is a story of Pakistan’s journey from dictatorship to democracy.