Doctors send Imran Khan back to his prison cell

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan returned to Adiala Jail on Friday after a medical evaluation at Islamabad's Shifa International Hospital. Six specialised doctors examined the 73-year-old political leader late Thursday night. They decided he was healthy enough to remain in custody safely. Police transported him back to his cell under extremely tight security measures.

High Security Medical Visit

Islamabad Inspector General of Police Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi personally inspected the private hospital before Khan arrived. Officers deployed a heavy police presence outside the facility to manage crowd control and ensure safety. This late-night movement followed a direct order from the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Judges had previously instructed authorities to provide specialized healthcare and allow Khan's personal physician to join the medical panel. Since his initial arrest in August 2023 regarding corruption charges, Khan's incarceration has fueled a prolonged confrontation between his political movement and Pakistan's powerful military establishment.

Ongoing Health Disputes

Family members and political allies have continuously raised alarms regarding Khan's physical well-being. Doctors diagnosed him with right central retinal vein occlusion earlier this year in January. Medical staff previously treated him multiple times at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences. Despite these ongoing issues, prison authorities argue that his medical reports do not justify permanent hospitalization.

Legal and Political Battles

Government lawyers attempted to block the hospital transfer through a review petition. The Supreme Court Registrar’s Office returned this petition due to specific procedural objections. Officials expect the government to file the paperwork again soon. Federal Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry recently suggested authorities might consider sending the former prime minister abroad for treatment. Meanwhile, his party plans to launch a nationwide march on September 27 to demand his immediate release.