Doctors reportedly declared him “medically fit”
Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has been returned to Adiala Jail after undergoing a medical examination at a government hospital in Islamabad.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder was taken to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) during the early hours of Friday, August 21.
His transfer came after Pakistan’s Supreme Court ordered authorities to move him to Shifa International Hospital for medical treatment.
The court had also directed that Khan should have access to a medical panel, including his personal physician.
However, Khan was instead taken to PIMS, a government-run hospital where he has previously received treatment for an eye condition.
Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said the decision was made because of security concerns around Shifa International Hospital.
He said a team including an ophthalmologist, cardiologist and physician examined Khan at PIMS.
Doctors reportedly declared him “medically fit” before he was taken back to Adiala Jail at around 5 am.
Doctors from Shifa International Hospital were also reportedly present during the examination.
The government said Khan’s sister, Dr Uzma Khan, was present during the medical examination and treatment.
However, Khan’s family and PTI have strongly criticised the government’s decision.
They argue that authorities failed to follow the Supreme Court’s instructions by taking him to PIMS instead of the specified private hospital.
PTI has said it intends to approach the Supreme Court over what it considers a possible contempt of court.
The controversy has also raised fresh concerns about Khan’s treatment while in prison.
His sister and personal physician, Dr Faisal Sultan, have made allegations about his health and conditions inside Adiala Jail.
Dr Uzma has claimed Khan told her that he was being subjected to torture while in custody.
She also raised concerns about his eyesight and alleged that he had been kept in solitary confinement.
These allegations have not been independently verified.
The Pakistani government has rejected claims of mistreatment, medical neglect and mental torture.
According to the government, the allegations are not supported by prison or medical records.
Officials have also said Khan receives medical attention and regular access to family members, lawyers and doctors.
Khan has been imprisoned since August 2023 after being convicted in several cases.
He and PTI have repeatedly described the cases against him as politically motivated.
Pakistan’s government denies the allegations.
The latest dispute comes as tensions between Khan’s supporters and authorities remain high.
PTI has already announced plans for a nationwide protest march on September 27.
The party says the demonstration will demand better access to Khan, faster hearings and his release.
The dispute over his medical treatment could therefore become another major flashpoint between PTI and Pakistan’s authorities.
