Imran Khan’s party PTI warns jailed leader at risk of permanent vision loss

The Pakistan Tehreek‑e‑Insaf (PTI) on Tuesday once again raised serious concerns over the health of its jailed founder and former prime minister, Imran Khan , saying a reported eye condition could lead to permanent loss of eyesight without urgent specialised medical care. The party also intensified calls for greater access for family and legal representatives following continued restrictions at prison.

In an official statement posted on the social media platform X, PTI cited “credible journalistic sources” indicating that Khan, 73, had been diagnosed with Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) in his right eye, a medical condition involving a blockage in the retinal vein that specialists say is highly sensitive and serious . According to PTI, medical experts warn that if the condition is not treated promptly and in proper facilities , it carries a strong risk of permanent damage to eyesight .

The party asserted that the Adiala Jail administration in Rawalpindi, where Khan has been incarcerated since August 2023 in the Al‑Qadir Trust corruption case, was insisting on treatment inside the prison. PTI said this was despite reported medical advice that proper care requires an operation theatre and specialised facilities not available within the jail.

PTI also reiterated its claim that Khan was last examined by his personal physician in October 2024 , and that despite clear orders from the Islamabad High Court (IHC) for regular medical access, his personal doctor has not been allowed to examine him since then. The party described this as a “grave violation of basic human rights” of an under‑trial prisoner.

A petition seeking regular medical check‑ups for Khan, filed before the IHC in August 2025 , is said by PTI to remain unaddressed. The party accused the government of political victimisation and jeopardising Khan’s health for political motives.

PTI demanded that Khan be transferred to a reputable hospital of his choice, such as Shaukat Khanum Hospital , so that specialised treatment can be administered. The party also urged that immediate unrestricted meetings between Khan and his family and associates be facilitated to reassure the public and address concerns about his condition.

In addition to health concerns, PTI leaders renewed efforts in the Islamabad High Court for permission to meet Khan. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan told the media that even though Tuesdays are officially designated for such meetings, they have been repeatedly denied access, and party lawmakers have filed fresh applications signed by all PTI members of the National Assembly.

However, the situation remains politically charged. Jail sources confirmed that Barrister Gohar was granted permission to meet Khan but refused to meet him alone, insisting a family member or legal representative be present. For the past few weeks, no one has been allowed to meet Khan inside the jail.

Outside the official PTI narrative, some concerns have surfaced about living conditions and broader health issues facing Khan in detention. Reports by independent observers and commentators allege that poor prison conditions, prolonged isolation, and restricted legal access have intensified criticism of the government’s handling of his incarceration.

At the same time, family members of Imran Khan have publicly questioned the authenticity of the specific eye ailment reports , saying they have received no official medical information and urging clarity from authorities. Some relatives have insisted he is in general good health and characterised the reports as unverified or misleading.