Imran Khan risks permanent vision loss in jail, PTI warns; party seeks immediate hospital treatment

PTI said medical examinations conducted inside Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi had described Khan’s condition as “extremely serious and sensitive”. According to the party, doctors have cautioned that any delay in proper treatment could result in irreversible damage to his eyesight and, in the worst case, complete blindness in the affected eye.

PTI alleged that despite medical advice recommending treatment at a fully equipped hospital, the jail administration remains firm on providing care within the prison. Citing a report by Pakistani daily Dawn, the party said Adiala Jail lacks the specialised facilities required to treat CRVO, including an operation theatre and access to a retina specialist. PTI has demanded that Khan be shifted immediately to a major hospital of his choice, naming Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital among the options.

The party has also called for unrestricted access for Khan’s family and close relatives. It said his family was not officially informed about the seriousness of his condition, despite repeated requests. Khan’s sister, Uzma Khan, last met him in December, after which the family publicly questioned the lack of transparency surrounding his health.

CRVO is a condition in which the main vein draining blood from the retina becomes blocked, leading to swelling, bleeding and reduced blood flow to the retina. Medical experts say the risk of permanent vision loss increases significantly if treatment is delayed beyond 24 to 72 hours. Standard treatment often involves specialised injections, laser therapy and strict monitoring by retina specialists, along with management of underlying conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

PTI has alleged that Khan has not been allowed regular medical check-ups since October 2024, despite directives from the Islamabad High Court. The party described this as a violation of court orders and fundamental human rights, accusing the authorities of endangering a prisoner’s health due to political considerations.

Imran Khan faces more than 100 cases and is currently serving a 14-year sentence in corruption-related matters, including the Toshakhana and Al-Qadir Trust cases. He has been incarcerated for nearly three years, with his legal team continuing to challenge both his convictions and the conditions of his detention.