Pakistan’s Supreme Court has ordered authorities to transfer former Prime Minister Imran Khan from prison to a hospital, citing concerns over his health. The court has also directed that he be given greater access to his family while receiving medical care.
Court Orders Medical Treatment
A three-member Supreme Court bench ruled that Khan should be taken to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad within 48 hours for examination and treatment by specialist doctors.
The judges said the decision was necessary to protect the jailed politician’s health, dignity and safety. An eye specialist is also expected to be involved in his medical assessment.
Khan’s lawyers have repeatedly raised concerns about his health, including problems with his eyesight. Earlier this year, his legal team claimed that his vision in one eye had deteriorated significantly. Government authorities disputed allegations that prison officials had failed to provide appropriate medical attention.
Zulfikar Bukhari, an adviser to Khan, welcomed the court’s decision but said medical intervention should have come earlier.
Family Contact Ordered
Alongside the hospital transfer, the Supreme Court ordered authorities to allow Khan weekly meetings with family members and telephone conversations with his sons.
The court’s decision comes after continued complaints from Khan’s lawyers and political supporters about his access to medical treatment and communication with relatives.
Members of Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party have urged supporters not to gather outside the hospital when he is transferred. Such a gathering could violate restrictions included in the court’s order.
Imran Khan Remains Political Force
Khan, 73, has been imprisoned since August 2023 and faces numerous legal cases. He has consistently rejected the allegations against him, arguing that the cases are politically motivated.
The former international cricket star served as Pakistan’s prime minister from 2018 to 2022. His imprisonment sparked major protests across the country, followed by a government crackdown on his supporters and party.
Despite remaining behind bars, Khan continues to command significant support in Pakistani politics. His health and legal situation have therefore remained closely watched both inside Pakistan and internationally.
The government has not publicly issued a detailed response to the latest Supreme Court order. The next major development will be Khan’s transfer to hospital and the medical assessment that follows.
