Supreme Court Orders Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan to Hospital

Court Orders Transfer

In a ruling issued on Tuesday, Pakistan’s Supreme Court ordered former prime minister Imran Khan to be shifted from prison to a hospital for medical checks, citing health concerns raised by his lawyers.^[3][4]

The order specifies that Khan, who is 73, will be transported to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad within the next two to three days, ensuring he receives a thorough medical examination.^[4]

Background of Detention

Khan has been serving a 17‑year sentence since last year, after a court convicted him and his wife on multiple corruption charges in the wake of a political upheaval that toppled his government in 2022.^[3]

His incarceration began in August 2023 following the final verdict in the series of graft-related cases filed against him and his party, the Pakistan Tehreek‑e‑Insaf.^[3]

Health Concerns Prompted the Order

Khan’s lawyers had petitioned the court after he reportedly suffered an eye ailment—right central retinal vein occlusion—that required repeated hospital visits since January.^[4]

While prison officials said his eyesight had improved to ‘almost normal’ following treatment at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences and private eye clinics, the court sought higher-level care to address his broader medical needs, including anxiety and stress issues highlighted by independent specialists.^[4]

Justice Shahid Waheed’s Directive

Justice Shahid Waheed, heading the three‑member bench, stated that the move was a matter of safeguarding Khan’s fundamental rights and ensuring adequate medical attention during his incarceration.^[4]

Next Steps

The Supreme Court’s directive is expected to be implemented within a few days, with the prison authorities arranging transportation and a comprehensive examination at Shifa International Hospital.^[4]