Islamabad: Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has reportedly lost around 85 per cent of vision in his right eye while in prison, raising serious concerns over his health and treatment in custody. The issue came to light after a court appointed legal representative met Khan at Adiala Jail and submitted a report to the Pakistan Supreme Court.
According to the report, Khan began experiencing blurred and hazy vision several months ago. Despite repeatedly informing prison authorities about his condition, timely specialist treatment was allegedly not provided. His eyesight continued to deteriorate, leading to a major loss of vision.
Doctors later diagnosed Khan with a condition affecting blood flow to the eye, which can result in severe damage if not treated promptly. Medical experts say delayed care can cause permanent impairment in such cases.
Taking note of the situation, the Pakistan Supreme Court ordered the formation of a medical board to carry out a detailed examination of Khan’s eyesight and overall health. The court also directed prison authorities to ensure immediate medical attention and proper reporting of his condition.
Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has described his treatment in jail as “Inhuman” and accused authorities of negligence. Party leaders and family members have claimed that repeated requests for medical care were ignored, leading to irreversible damage to his eyesight.
Government officials, however, have maintained that Khan received medical attention and was taken to a government hospital for examination. They stated that doctors assessed his condition and that prison authorities acted according to medical advice.
The incident has sparked political reactions across Pakistan, with supporters of Imran Khan expressing concern over his health and demanding accountability. Human rights activists have also raised questions about the standard of medical care provided to prisoners, particularly high profile detainees.
Imran Khan has been in custody since August 2023 in multiple legal cases. His deteriorating health has added to political tensions in the country, with opposition leaders accusing the government of targeting him through legal and administrative pressure.
The Supreme Court’s intervention signals judicial concern over the welfare of prisoners and the need to ensure basic medical rights, regardless of political status.
