Islamabad – Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) has accused the federal and Punjab governments of misleading the nation about the health condition of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, intensifying political tensions over transparency and prisoner rights.
The allegations were raised by Shafi Jan, Special Assistant to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister on Information, who claimed that despite repeated concerns voiced by PTI leaders regarding Imran Khan’s wellbeing, official statements continued to downplay or misrepresent the seriousness of his condition.
In a strongly worded statement issued from Peshawar, Jan said the nation was kept in the dark until it was later confirmed that Imran Khan had been shifted from Adiala Jail to Islamabad’s Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for medical treatment.
PTI leaders argue that the delayed confirmation has exposed what they describe as false narratives presented by the authorities, fueling public concern over the former premier’s health and the secrecy surrounding his medical care.
Family and Personal Doctors Denied Access
Jan further alleged that even after Imran Khan’s transfer to hospital, his family members and personal physicians were not informed in time, nor were they allowed access to assess his condition.
Calling it a violation of fundamental rights, the PTI official accused the jail administration and both provincial and federal governments of negligence, warning that continued denial of access could prompt the party to adopt a tougher political course.
The party has demanded that Imran Khan’s personal medical team be allowed to examine him, stressing that any prisoner — particularly a high-profile political figure — must be granted lawful and humane medical treatment.
Political Pressure Mounts Outside Adiala Jail
The issue has also sparked broader political reaction, with senior PTI figures staging protests and sit-ins after being denied permission to meet the incarcerated leader.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur was among those who publicly questioned why the authorities handled the matter with such secrecy, describing the concealment of medical details as unacceptable and damaging to public trust.
PTI leaders claim the refusal of meetings, despite court-related expectations, reflects a pattern of political victimisation rather than lawful governance.
Growing Demands for Transparency
The controversy has once again placed the spotlight on the treatment of Imran Khan in custody, with opposition leaders calling for greater transparency, adherence to constitutional rights, and accountability from the authorities.
As the political climate remains tense, the handling of Imran Khan’s health continues to raise questions not only about medical care in detention, but also about the credibility of official communication with the public.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.