Petition Seeks Immediate Shift to Private Medical Facility
Islamabad — The Supreme Court has been moved through a petition seeking the transfer of former prime minister Imran Khan to Shifa International Hospital for advanced medical treatment and continuous monitoring of his health condition.
The petition was filed by his sister, Uzma Khan, and challenges a previous Islamabad High Court decision that had directed authorities to form a medical board for his examination.
Health Concerns Highlighted in Petition
The plea states that Imran Khan is suffering from Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) in his right eye, which is linked to an underlying blood clot. It argues that the condition may pose serious health risks beyond vision impairment.
According to the petition, blood clots can travel to vital organs, potentially leading to complications such as stroke or heart issues, requiring constant specialist supervision and advanced medical care.
It further argues that such facilities are not adequately available within the current prison environment.
Demand for Treatment at Private Hospital
The petition requests that Imran Khan be shifted to a private hospital for:
- Comprehensive medical examination
- Continuous monitoring
- Treatment under specialist doctors
- Access to physicians of his choice
It also claims that denial of such access violates his fundamental rights to life, dignity, and proper healthcare.
Reference to Prison Conditions and Human Rights Concerns
The plea cites reports on prison healthcare, including findings from human rights organizations, arguing that prisoners in Pakistan often lack timely and specialized treatment.
It also contends that incarcerated individuals remain fully dependent on the state for healthcare, and therefore the state has a constitutional and international obligation to ensure adequate medical facilities.
Allegations of Unequal Treatment
The petition further argues that other political figures in custody in the past received better medical facilities and access, suggesting discriminatory treatment in Imran Khan’s case.
It references former leaders such as Nawaz Sharif and Asif Ali Zardari, stating that they were provided extensive medical support during detention.
Legal Questions Raised
The plea also challenges the Islamabad High Court’s interpretation of prison rules, arguing that family access to sick prisoners is a constitutional right and not merely a procedural formality.
It maintains that relatives should be allowed to participate in the treatment process and remain informed about the patient’s ongoing condition.
Next Legal Steps
The Supreme Court is expected to review the petition, which raises broader questions about:
- Prisoner healthcare rights
- Medical access in custody
- Role of private hospitals in treatment of inmates
- Constitutional protections for detainees
The case is likely to draw significant political and legal attention given Imran Khan’s status and ongoing legal proceedings.
