Imran Khan Back in Prison After Being Cleared by Doctors, Says Pakistani Official

Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, has been deemed medically fit and returned to Adiala Jail, as reported by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar. This follows an overnight medical evaluation.

Khan, who is 73 years old, was moved from prison for his examination after Pakistan's Supreme Court mandated that he be transferred to a hospital.

This visit marks the first instance since February that Khan was allowed to leave prison for medical reasons.

Khan Found Medically Fit by Doctors

According to Tarar, a medical team comprising various specialists evaluated Khan at a government hospital and concluded that he was in good health.

The examination team included a cardiologist, an ophthalmologist, and a physician. Khan's sister, Uzma Khan, was present during the assessment, as per the minister's statement.

Notably, Khan was taken to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences instead of the Shifa International Hospital specified by the Supreme Court, due to security concerns regarding the route and the presence of supporters from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf.

Following the medical assessment, he was escorted back to Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi at approximately 5 a.m.

Supreme Court Directive for Hospital Transfer

Despite the Supreme Court's order requiring Khan's transfer to Shifa International Hospital within two days and access to his medical team, his party interpreted it as a longer hospital stay.

Supporters gathered in Islamabad as he was transported for the medical check-up, throwing flowers toward a vehicle believed to be carrying him.

Initially, PTI claimed he had reached Shifa International Hospital, but later did not comment on the government's assertion that he had returned after being examined at a state-run facility.

Ongoing Health Concerns

Khan has faced imprisonment since August 2023, with his legal team raising alarms about his health, asserting that it has worsened during his time in custody.

His lawyers have indicated he has suffered significant vision loss in his right eye. While Khan seeks urgent medical treatment, the government has refuted these claims, citing prior medical evaluations.

Alongside these developments, Khan maintains that the accusations against him are politically charged, but the government counters these assertions.

PTI Plans for a Nationwide Demonstration

PTI spokesperson Zulfikar Bukhari has referred to the Supreme Court's decision to allow a medical check-up as a beacon of hope for the party.

The party has outlined plans for a nationwide march on September 27, during which supporters will demand improved access to Khan, expedited court proceedings for his legal matters, and his release.

With Khan's return to prison, tensions between his supporters and the government may escalate, especially if they feel the Supreme Court's order wasn't properly followed.