IMRAN KHAN HEALTH CRISIS SPARKS FRESH POLITICAL OUTRAGE IN PAKISTAN

​The political landscape of Pakistan has been hit by a wave of shock and anger following reports of a severe health crisis involving former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Currently held in Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, the 73-year-old leader is reportedly facing a partial loss of sight, a revelation that has sent his supporters into a frenzy and drawn sharp criticism from human rights advocates across the globe.

​What began as a series of legal battles has now transformed into a high-stakes humanitarian concern. The news of Khan’s deteriorating health was brought to light by his legal team and confirmed by his son, Kasim Khan. They allege that months of solitary confinement and medical neglect have led to a permanent disability, sparking a fresh round of protests and legal maneuvers in an already polarized nation.

​The Claim of Vision Loss

​The most alarming aspect of the current crisis is the reported damage to Imran Khan’s eyesight. According to a detailed report submitted to the Supreme Court by a court-appointed lawyer, the former premier has lost nearly 85 percent of the vision in his right eye. The report suggests that Khan now retains only 15 percent of his sight in that eye, a condition described as "heart-wrenching" by his political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf.

​Khan reportedly told his legal counsel that his vision was perfectly fine as recently as October 2025. However, over the last few months, he began experiencing persistent blurring and haze. Despite his repeated complaints to jail authorities, it is alleged that no immediate action was taken. It was only after the condition worsened significantly that a medical specialist was called in, but by then, the damage had become severe.

​Allegations of Medical Neglect

​The family of the former Prime Minister has been vocal about what they call "deliberate neglect." Kasim Khan, residing in the United Kingdom, took to social media to express his anguish. He stated that his father’s condition is a direct result of being kept in a "death cell" with limited light, no electricity for long periods, and a lack of access to basic medical checkups like blood tests.

​The defense team argues that if the authorities had acted when the first symptoms appeared, the vision loss could have been prevented. Instead, they claim the administration ignored the signs until the situation reached a breaking point. The narrative from Khan's camp is clear: this is not just a medical issue, but a systematic attempt to break the spirit of a political rival through physical and psychological pressure.

​The Court Steps In

​In response to these disturbing reports, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has taken notice of the situation. Chief Justice Yahya Afridi recently ordered the formation of an independent medical board to examine Khan’s health thoroughly. The court emphasized that the health of a former Prime Minister is a matter of national importance and cannot be overlooked.

​The court has set a strict deadline, demanding a comprehensive medical report by mid-February 2026. Furthermore, the judges have directed jail authorities to facilitate phone calls between Khan and his sons. This move is seen as a significant win for Khan’s legal team, who have long argued that the former leader was being kept in total isolation to prevent him from communicating with the outside world.

​Government Response and Counter-Claims

​While the allegations of neglect are loud, the Pakistani government and jail authorities have pushed back against the narrative of "torture" or "intentional harm." Government officials maintain that Imran Khan is being treated according to the jail manual and is provided with the necessary facilities allowed for high-profile prisoners.

​Spokespersons for the administration have previously stated that medical teams are regularly available at Adiala Jail and that any specialized treatment required is provided at state-run hospitals. They suggest that the claims made by Khan’s family are politically motivated and designed to gain public sympathy or pressure the judiciary for his release. This tug-of-war between the state’s version of events and the family’s claims has only added to the public’s confusion and anger.

​Rising Political Tensions

​The news of Khan’s health has acted as a catalyst for renewed political activity in Pakistan. Supporters of the PTI have organized rallies in several cities, demanding "justice for Khan" and his immediate release on medical grounds. The sight of a once-athletic world champion cricketer now reportedly struggling with his vision has struck a deep emotional chord with his followers.

​Political analysts believe this crisis could lead to a further standoff between the opposition and the current government. If the medical board confirms that the vision loss was indeed preventable, it could lead to serious legal consequences for jail officials and put the government in a very difficult position internationally. Human rights groups and democratic institutions are already watching the case closely, urging the state to ensure the safety and dignity of all political prisoners.

​The Impact of Solitary Confinement

​Psychologists and health experts have often warned about the long-term effects of solitary confinement, especially for older individuals. Prolonged isolation, lack of natural light, and the stress of ongoing legal battles can lead to various physical ailments, including vision problems, high blood pressure, and mental health struggles.

​In Khan’s case, his supporters argue that his 900-plus days of incarceration have been designed to wear him down. They point to the fact that he has been kept away from his family and personal doctors as proof of an "inhumane" environment. Whether these conditions directly caused the blood clot in his eye is something the medical board will have to determine, but the psychological toll of such confinement is undeniable.

​What Lies Ahead for Pakistan

​As the deadline for the medical review approaches, the nation holds its breath. The findings of the medical board will likely dictate the next phase of Pakistan’s political struggle. If Khan is found to be in critical condition, there will be immense pressure to move him to a private hospital or even grant him bail for treatment abroad.

​On the other hand, if the government’s claims of providing adequate care are upheld, the political divide will only deepen, with the PTI accusing the medical board of being under state influence. Regardless of the outcome, the image of Imran Khan’s health crisis has already become a powerful symbol for his movement, highlighting the fragile state of democracy and human rights in the country.

​Conclusion

​The health of Imran Khan has become more than just a medical file; it is now a focal point of a national crisis. For many, it represents the lengths to which political rivalry can go, while for others, it is a test of the country’s judicial and administrative integrity. As the legal and medical battles continue, the primary concern remains the well-being of a man who once led the nation and continues to command the loyalty of millions.