Imran Khan Returned to Adiala Jail
Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has been transferred back to Adiala Jail after doctors at Islamabad’s Shifa International Hospital determined that he was fit to remain in custody. The 73-year-old Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder was taken to the private hospital for a medical evaluation following a Supreme Court order directing authorities to provide him with specialised medical care.
Khan was brought to the hospital from Adiala Jail around midnight under tight security. A team of six specialist doctors examined him before deciding that hospital admission was not necessary. He was subsequently taken back to prison and shifted to his cell.
The latest development comes amid an ongoing dispute between Khan’s legal team, family and Pakistani authorities over his medical treatment and access to specialised healthcare.
Supreme Court Order Led to Medical Examination
The former prime minister’s hospital visit followed a Supreme Court directive requiring authorities to move him from Adiala Jail to Shifa International Hospital for a medical assessment.
The court had also directed that Khan be examined by a medical panel that included his personal physician. The order came after concerns were repeatedly raised about his health while in prison.
Security arrangements were tightened ahead of his arrival at the hospital. Islamabad Inspector General of Police Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi reportedly visited the facility with senior police officers, while a heavy police contingent was deployed around the hospital.
After the examination, doctors concluded that Khan could safely continue receiving care while remaining in custody.
Government Review Petition Faces Objections
The medical dispute has also become part of a wider legal battle. Pakistan’s government had challenged the Supreme Court’s order requiring Khan’s transfer to the hospital.
However, reports said the Supreme Court Registrar’s Office returned the government’s review petition after raising objections. Authorities are expected to address those objections and submit the petition again.
Khan’s lawyers and family members have repeatedly alleged that his medical requirements have not been adequately addressed in prison. Government officials, meanwhile, have maintained that available medical reports did not show a condition requiring immediate hospitalisation.
Eye Condition Remains a Major Concern
Khan’s health has been a growing concern since he was diagnosed with right central retinal vein occlusion in late January.
The condition has resulted in several visits to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad for treatment. His family and PTI leaders have called for access to specialised care and have repeatedly sought his transfer to a private medical facility.
Federal Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry has also suggested that the possibility of sending Khan abroad for medical treatment could be considered, although no such transfer has been announced.
Khan Remains Behind Bars
Imran Khan has been imprisoned since August 2023 while facing several legal cases. He has maintained that the cases against him are politically motivated, an allegation rejected by Pakistan’s government.
Khan became prime minister in 2018 but was removed from office in 2022 after losing a parliamentary no-confidence vote. His removal triggered a prolonged political confrontation between his PTI movement and Pakistan’s political and military establishment.
He was first arrested on May 9, 2023, an event that triggered widespread protests and violence across the country. He was arrested again in August 2023 following his conviction in the Toshakhana case involving allegations related to the sale of state gifts.
Since then, Khan has remained in custody while his legal team challenges multiple convictions and cases.
PTI Continues Its Political Campaign
Khan’s latest hospital episode comes as the PTI continues to demand improved access to its leader, faster hearings and his release.
The party has also announced plans for a nationwide march on September 27, adding another potential flashpoint to Pakistan’s continuing political confrontation.
For now, Khan remains at Adiala Jail after doctors determined that he could safely stay in custody. His health, however, remains a major political and legal issue as his family, lawyers, supporters and the government continue to disagree over the level of medical care he should receive.
