PTI Files Plea in IHC for Imran Khan’s Transfer to Hospital Over Eye Health Concerns

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) was approached on Monday with a petition seeking the urgent transfer of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan to Shifa International Hospital for specialised eye treatment. The application, filed by senior counsel Sardar Latif Khosa under Section 561-A of the Criminal Procedure Code, raised concerns about the adequacy and transparency of the medical care being provided to the former prime minister during his incarceration.

According to the petition, Imran Khan, who has been in custody since August 2023 and is now 73 years old, is reportedly suffering from a significant deterioration in his right eye, with only about 15 per cent vision remaining. The plea alleges that jail authorities have conducted medical examinations in secrecy and have not provided timely or sufficient medical intervention despite repeated complaints from Khan regarding “blurred and hazardous vision.”

The application referenced a report submitted to the Supreme Court by amicus curiae Barrister Salman Safdar, which confirmed that Khan had undergone a government-facilitated follow-up treatment for his eye condition. However, the report also indicated that no adequate or prompt medical response was undertaken by prison officials in light of Khan’s ongoing health complaints.

This latest move follows a similar plea submitted to the Supreme Court on February 25, seeking improved medical care for Khan. The current petition specifically requests that Khan be shifted to Shifa International Hospital to receive specialised treatment for his eye ailment.

Sources indicate that the court has yet to issue a decision on the matter. The petition underscores ongoing concerns regarding the medical treatment of high-profile detainees and calls for greater transparency in the handling of their health issues while in custody.