The Pakistan Supreme Court has mandated that former Prime Minister Imran Khan be transferred to a private hospital in Islamabad for medical evaluation and treatment. This directive was issued on Tuesday, stating that Khan should be taken to the Shifa International Hospital within the next few days. The court scheduled the next hearing for September 16.

Justice Shahid Waheed, who led the three-member bench, underscored the necessity of ensuring the health and safety of the incarcerated individual. The court ordered the establishment of a medical board specifically to assess the 73-year-old’s condition. This decision stemmed from petitions filed due to Khan’s eye issues, which had prompted concerns about the adequacy of care in government hospitals.

Khan, who founded the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, has been imprisoned in Adiala Jail, Rawalpindi, since 2023 and faces multiple legal challenges. His supporters have protested against his confinement, alleging human rights violations and limited access to medical care, family visits, and legal representation.

Medical Condition and Court Findings

During the court session, prison officials reported that Khan’s eye condition had improved significantly, with his vision nearing normal. The legal team representing Khan argued that their client was not receiving appropriate treatment while in custody, leading to calls for his transfer to a private facility.

Alongside the formation of the medical board, the bench mandated that both a senior medical professional and Khan’s personal doctor be present during his treatment. The costs incurred at the private hospital are to be covered by Khan’s family. The court also instructed that public order be maintained outside the hospital during Khan’s stay, and cautioned against politically motivated uses of his medical reports.

The prison administration provided an overview of 39 medical check-ups conducted by various specialists between November 2023 and August 2026. According to the submitted report, several healthcare professionals had assessed Khan, and detailed records were maintained. The report concluded that leading ophthalmologists had treated him for a condition known as right central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), and they noted measurable improvement in his vision.

Wider Implications and Public Response

The court’s decision arrives amid escalating critique of the Pakistani authorities concerning Khan’s treatment. Human rights organisations, including Amnesty International, have accused the state of an unfair trial process and unnecessary solitary confinement. Earlier demonstrations by Khan’s allies were aimed at highlighting his health concerns and alleged denial of visitation rights, which the government has denied.

As the proceedings continue, the Supreme Court has summoned officials from Adiala Jail to appear at the next hearing scheduled for September 16, with a request for Khan’s complete medical records. Government ministers expressed their commitment to comply with the court’s orders while reinforcing that decisions regarding Khan’s legal circumstances would lie with the judiciary rather than political entities.

In response to the Supreme Court’s ruling, Khan’s political party welcomed the decision to facilitate his transfer for medical care. Party leaders urged supporters to maintain a peaceful presence outside the hospital to ensure a conducive environment for Khan’s treatment.

The Supreme Court’s ruling reflects ongoing disputes regarding Khan’s health care and other allegations related to his treatment while in custody. As the case unfolds, the implications of this decision may have far-reaching effects on public opinion and the political landscape in Pakistan.

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