Pakistan Supreme Court Orders Hospital Transfer For Jailed Former Prime Minister Imran Khan
In a significant judicial directive, the Supreme Court of Pakistan ordered prison authorities to transfer jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad for specialized medical evaluation and care. Presiding over a three-member bench, Justice Shahid Waheed stated that the judicial intervention was necessary to guarantee the fundamental right to life and safety under Article 9 of the constitution. The court directed law enforcement and jail administrations to execute the transfer within forty-eight hours and maintain hospital care until mid-September.
The ruling follows intense legal petitions filed by family members and defense counsel who raised grave concerns regarding deteriorating health conditions during prolonged incarceration. Recent medical filings disclosed that the former prime minister experienced fluctuating blood pressure levels, elevated anxiety, heart palpitations, and ongoing complications related to an eye condition diagnosed earlier in the year. Although government representatives maintained that adequate medical attention was provided within state-run facilities, defense lawyers argued that severe restrictions on family visits and external consultations compromised proper care.
To oversee the treatment process, the Supreme Court ordered the constitution of a dedicated medical board that will include Khan's personal physician alongside independent specialists. In addition to approving the hospital transfer, the bench directed prison officials to facilitate regular family interactions and allow telephonic communications with relatives living overseas. The bench also instructed party representatives and supporters to maintain public order surrounding the medical facility and avoid utilizing clinical reports for political leverage.
The judicial order provides temporary relief regarding medical access following extended detention since late 2023. Representatives from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf welcomed the court order while urging supporters to comply with judicial guidelines during the hospitalization period. Meanwhile, government officials stated that state machinery would honor the judicial directions in full accordance with legal procedures.