Islamabad, Aug 21:
Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was transferred back to Adiala Jail on Friday after doctors at Shifa International Hospital declared him fit to remain in custody following a medical examination.
The 73-year-old Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder was taken to the Islamabad hospital from prison around midnight following a Supreme Court order directing authorities to provide him specialised medical care.
A team of six specialist doctors examined Khan and concluded that he did not require hospitalisation. He was subsequently taken back to prison under tight security and shifted to his cell.
The transfer followed a Supreme Court directive requiring Khan to be moved to Shifa International Hospital and examined by a medical panel that included his personal physician. The government had challenged the order, but its review petition was returned by the Supreme Court Registrar’s Office over procedural objections. The government is expected to refile it after addressing the objections.
Khan’s health has been a subject of concern among his family and PTI leaders. He was diagnosed with right central retinal vein occlusion in January and has undergone treatment at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad.
His family and party have repeatedly sought specialised treatment for him at a private hospital, while authorities have maintained that his medical reports did not indicate a need for immediate hospitalisation.
Imran Khan has remained in prison since August 2023 and faces multiple cases and convictions, which he has described as politically motivated. The government has rejected the allegation.
The latest medical episode comes amid continued pressure from PTI for better access to Khan, faster hearings and his release. The party has also announced plans for a nationwide march on September 27.