Islamabad: Pakistan’s Supreme Court has ordered authorities to shift jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan from Adiala Jail to a hospital in Islamabad, according to reports from local media. The court has directed that Khan be moved to Shifa International Hospital under security arrangements while his medical condition is assessed.
The development comes amid renewed concerns over the 73-year-old Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder’s health. His family and party have repeatedly raised questions about his access to medical care and contact with relatives during his imprisonment.
The Supreme Court has also sought Khan’s complete medical record from the relevant authorities. The court reportedly directed officials to ensure security and maintain law and order around the hospital during his treatment.
Arif Alvi Raises Alarm Over Medical Reports
Former Pakistan President Arif Alvi had raised concerns about Khan’s health shortly before the court’s decision. In a post on X, Alvi said he had reviewed Khan’s medical reports with several specialists and described them as alarming.
According to Alvi, the issues that concerned him most were Khan’s reported anxiety and stress levels, heart palpitations and elevated blood pressure. He also expressed concern about possible sleep problems, although he acknowledged that sleeplessness was not explicitly mentioned in the report.
Alvi argued that the prolonged period of imprisonment and isolation had placed Khan under considerable psychological strain. He called for continuous monitoring of his heart rate and blood pressure and urged that Khan receive treatment under an independent medical panel rather than relying solely on government-appointed doctors.
Family Has Raised Access Concerns
Khan’s family has repeatedly complained about difficulties in meeting him and obtaining reliable information about his condition. His sons have also alleged that family members, lawyers and doctors were denied access to him for extended periods. Pakistani authorities have rejected claims of a prolonged communications blackout, maintaining that Khan has received visitors and medical care.
The latest medical controversy comes as Khan remains incarcerated over multiple legal cases. His health has become an increasingly sensitive issue for his supporters, with the PTI demanding greater transparency over his treatment and access to independent specialists.
The Supreme Court’s latest direction now puts Khan’s medical care at the centre of attention, with the transfer to hospital expected to provide doctors with an opportunity to conduct further examinations while the court continues to monitor the matter.
