Imran Khan loses 85% vision in right eye, Pak SC orders urgent medical review

Pakistan’s jailed former prime minister Imran Khan has suffered a serious deterioration in health, retaining only 15 per cent vision in his right eye , prompting the Supreme Court of Pakistan to order an urgent medical review amid allegations of delayed treatment in prison.

Taking suo motu note of the issue, the apex court directed the formation of a specialist medical board , including senior ophthalmologists , to examine Imran Khan before February 16. The court also ordered prison authorities to allow him to speak with his sons and grant access to his personal doctors , stressing that providing medical care to prisoners is a constitutional obligation of the state .

The directions followed an eight-page report submitted by advocate Salman Safdar , appointed amicus curiae to inspect Imran Khan’s detention conditions at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail . During the inspection, Imran Khan raised what he described as a “very serious and pressing concern” regarding his rapidly deteriorating eyesight. He told the lawyer that his vision had been normal until October 2025 , after which he began experiencing persistent blurred vision.

According to the report, Imran Khan repeatedly complained to jail authorities, but no timely medical intervention was initiated. He later suffered a near-total loss of vision in his right eye. A doctor from the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) eventually diagnosed him with central retinal vein occlusion , a blood-clot-related condition that can cause irreversible retinal damage . Despite treatment, including an injection, the damage had already become severe.

Safdar observed that Imran Khan appeared visibly distressed and in physical discomfort during the meeting. The report warned that any further delay in specialised care could threaten his remaining eyesight and overall health .

Imran Khan also complained that routine blood tests appropriate for his age of 73 are not being conducted and that he has not received a dental examination for two years. He said access to his personal doctors was curtailed after he raised concerns about his eyesight.

While expressing satisfaction with security arrangements, food and basic living conditions , Imran Khan said extreme heat and insect infestation during summer months severely affect his rest.

The report triggered sharp political reactions, with PTI leaders alleging criminal negligence by prison authorities. The government, however, maintained that Imran Khan has been receiving appropriate medical care .

The Supreme Court is expected to review compliance with its directions in the coming days amid growing concern over Imran Khan’s deteriorating health in custody .