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Former PM's vision deteriorates in custody
Imran Khan, Pakistan's jailed former prime minister, retains only 15 % sight in his right eye after prison officials failed to provide timely treatment, his legal team told the Supreme Court on Tuesday.
Symptoms ignored for months
Khan's lawyer Salman Safdar, who visited his client this week-the first outside visitor in seven weeks-stated that the 71-year-old began experiencing blurred and hazy vision three to four months ago. Despite alerting the jail superintendent, Khan received only eye drops and no further medical attention.
Blood clot diagnosed too late
Safdar reported that a blood clot in Khan's right eye was finally diagnosed, causing severe damage that has left him with limited vision. The lawyer submitted a detailed medical report to Chief Justice Yahya Afridi and Justice Shahid Bilal Hasan, describing Khan as "visibly perturbed and deeply distressed" by the loss of sight and the lack of specialized care.
Court orders immediate access to personal doctors
The Supreme Court ruled that Khan must be allowed to consult his own physicians at Adiala Jail, where he is held, and permitted to telephone his sons, Kasim and Sulaiman.
Prison conditions described
According to Safdar's report, Khan's cell contains basic furniture, 100 books, two dumbbells, a prayer mat, and a non-functional television. During summer, the room becomes hot and humid, with frequent insect and mosquito infestations. Khan also suffered food poisoning two to three times in the warmer months.
A fellow inmate assists with cleaning, and Khan is allowed to walk in a 12-by-30-foot lawn during daylight hours.
Government dismisses claims
Pakistani authorities previously stated that Khan underwent a 20-minute medical procedure at Islamabad's PIMS hospital on 24 January. Minister Ata Tarar described him as "fine and healthy" at the time. Another interior minister had earlier called Khan "the most privileged prisoner in Pakistan," citing access to gym equipment and a personal cook.
Political context
Khan, who led Pakistan's national cricket team to its 1992 World Cup victory, served as prime minister from 2018 to 2022. His government launched major infrastructure projects, free healthcare initiatives, and renewable-energy campaigns.
Arrested in August 2023, Khan faces over 100 charges, including leaking state secrets and selling state gifts. He maintains that all cases are politically motivated. His imprisonment sparked mass protests, which authorities suppressed, leading to thousands of arrests and injuries in clashes with police.
