PTI voices concern over Imran Khan’s eye condition, demand immediate treatment

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Tuesday expressed serious concern over the health of its incarcerated founder, Imran Khan, alleging that jail authorities and the government were obstructing treatment for a “serious eye condition” and demanded that immediate medical care be provided.

In a post on X, citing “credible journalistic sources”, the party said the former prime minister had been diagnosed with Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) in his right eye, a condition that causes a dangerous blockage in the retinal vein.

“According to doctors, the condition is highly sensitive and serious, and there is a strong risk of permanent damage to eyesight if timely and appropriate treatment is not provided,” the statement said.

The party alleged that jail authorities were insisting on carrying out treatment inside the prison, despite doctors having clearly stated that such treatment was not possible within jail premises and required an operation theatre and specialised medical facilities.

“Imran Khan was last granted access to his personal physician in October 2024, and since then, despite clear orders from the Islamabad High Court, his personal doctor has not been allowed to examine him,” the statement added, calling it a “grave violation of the basic human rights” of an undertrial prisoner.

It further stated that a petition seeking regular medical check-ups had been pending before the court since August 2025 and had not been taken up deliberately.

According to the party, the government’s conduct reflected political victimisation. It accused the authorities of endangering the life and health of a prisoner in pursuit of political revenge and demanded that Imran be allowed an immediate meeting with his family members and associates.

“The government is urged to facilitate an immediate meeting between Imran Khan and his family members and associates, without any delay, to reassure the public, and to allow him to receive treatment either at Shaukat Khanum Hospital or any other reputable hospital of his choice, where specialised doctors can provide care with full medical facilities,” the statement read.

The party also urged the judiciary to take notice of the matter, stressing that it concerned health rather than politics and that any negligence would be unacceptable.

“If, God forbid, Imran Khan were to suffer any permanent damage to his eyesight, full responsibility would rest directly with the government and jail authorities for obstructing treatment despite court orders,” it concluded.

Uzma Khan, sister of the jailed PTI leader, said that he developed an infection in his right eye two months ago. She said that during a meeting on December 2, which was restricted to just 20 minutes, no clear information could be obtained regarding his eye or overall health.

“Had the meeting been longer, more details might have emerged,” she said.

Uzma added that the family was not being provided with any official information regarding Imran’s health and called on the government to issue an official statement clarifying his condition.

“We are repeatedly asked why we come to Adiala, but if we do not come there, where else are we supposed to go?” she said.