A newly appointed medical board consisting of five specialist doctors and supporting medical personnel has completed a comprehensive health evaluation of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan at Adiala jail. This examination was conducted in strict compliance with orders issued by the Islamabad High Court (IHC), which had mandated a fresh medical assessment to determine Khan’s current health status while in custody.
The medical evaluation focused primarily on Khan’s eye condition, central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), a serious ailment that affects the retina’s blood drainage system. This diagnosis was highlighted in a detailed report submitted to the Supreme Court by Khan’s legal team and the court’s amicus curiae, Salman Safdar. CRVO occurs when the main vein responsible for draining blood from the retina becomes obstructed, often linked to underlying cardiovascular issues such as hypertension, elevated cholesterol levels, diabetes, and other heart-related diseases. The condition can lead to significant vision impairment if not properly managed.
On Wednesday, the medical team conducted a meticulous two-hour examination of the former premier’s affected eye, employing specialized diagnostic techniques to assess the severity and progression of the condition. The board was formed by the Islamabad chief commissioner specifically to oversee Khan’s medical care within the prison environment. The panel includes renowned experts such as ENT specialist Professor Altaf Hussain, cardiologist Professor Akhtar Ali Bandesha, ophthalmologist Professor Nadeem Qureshi from Al-Shifa Eye Hospital, and Dr. Muhammad Ali Arif, all of whom bring extensive experience in their respective fields.
The jail administration issued a statement confirming the formation of this new medical board and assured that a comprehensive report detailing the findings and recommendations would soon be submitted to the chief commissioner. This report will play a crucial role in deciding whether Khan’s treatment should continue inside the prison or if he requires transfer to an external medical facility for specialized care.
This development follows the Islamabad High Court’s directive last week, which instructed the chief commissioner to establish a medical board to evaluate Khan’s health condition thoroughly. The court had simultaneously dismissed a petition that sought to transfer the former prime minister to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad for his eye treatment. The petition was reviewed by a division bench comprising Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir and Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro, who emphasized the need for an impartial medical assessment before making any decisions regarding Khan’s hospitalization.
In its detailed three-page order, the IHC underscored the importance of the medical board submitting its recommendations promptly. The chief commissioner, after reviewing the report, will determine the appropriate course of action in accordance with legal provisions and relevant prison regulations. The court also stressed that prison authorities must keep Khan’s family informed about any serious changes in his health condition, ensuring transparency and communication during this critical period.
Furthermore, the court clarified that under Pakistan Prison Rules, the government retains the authority to transfer a prisoner for specialized medical treatment when necessary. It explicitly stated that Section 561-A of the Criminal Procedure Code does not supersede the executive powers related to prisoner transfers. The IHC also mandated that Dr. Nadeem Qureshi remain in close contact with Khan’s family to provide updates and facilitate communication.
It is important to note that the former prime minister has been allowed to continue meeting with his legal representatives and family members, as per earlier court orders issued by a larger bench. This ensures that Khan’s rights are preserved despite his incarceration.
Prior to this recent examination, Khan had been taken twice to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad from Adiala jail for treatment of his right eye. His most recent hospital visit occurred on February 24 under stringent security measures for a scheduled follow-up appointment. This marked his second visit since late January, during which he received injections as part of his ongoing treatment regimen. The next injection is anticipated on March 23, continuing the carefully monitored medical protocol designed to manage his eye condition.
As the situation develops, all eyes remain on the forthcoming medical board report, which will significantly influence decisions regarding the healthcare provisions for the former prime minister while he remains in custody. The case highlights the delicate balance between ensuring adequate medical care for prisoners and maintaining the integrity of the legal and correctional system.
