Islamabad – The sons of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan have applied for visas to visit their father, who is currently incarcerated at Adiala Jail, as concerns mount over his health and well-being. This development comes amidst a backdrop of political tension and scrutiny surrounding the medical care being provided to the former premier.
The application for visas underscores the family’s desire to be present with Khan, who has alleged mistreatment and faces numerous legal challenges. Recent reports have indicated a potential decline in his vision, prompting calls for improved medical attention and independent evaluations. The situation has ignited protests from supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, who allege political motivations behind Khan’s detention and the handling of his health concerns. The core issue remains access to adequate medical care for Imran Khan while he is in custody.
Medical Examination and Disputed Findings
On Sunday, February 16, 2026, a five-member medical team conducted an eye examination of Imran Khan at Adiala Jail following a directive from the Supreme Court, according to reports from The Times of India and Pakistan Today. The PTI has strongly criticized the process, labeling it “malicious” and objecting to the exclusion of Khan’s family and personal physicians. The party argues that the constitutional right to make decisions regarding medical care rests with the family, particularly when dealing with sensitive health matters.
According to Adiala Jail Superintendent Sajid Baig, the medical team arrived with necessary equipment and medicines and conducted a detailed examination. A report is expected to be compiled shortly. However, the PTI maintains that the government’s claim of attempting to notify party leadership about the examination is a diversionary tactic. Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khanum, has stated that no medical board will be accepted without the approval of his personal doctors.
Recent reports suggest that Khan has allegedly lost around 85% of vision in his right eye, as noted by ARY News. However, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry stated on Saturday that there is “nothing to worry about” regarding Khan’s vision loss, and the government had considered shifting him to Al-Shifa Eye Hospital for treatment.
Political Fallout and Protests
The ongoing situation has fueled political unrest, with the PTI staging protests across the country. While the PTI ended a sit-in at the K-P House, protests continued at Parliament House, reiterating demands for Khan’s transfer to a hospital of his personal doctors’ choice, as reported by The Express Tribune.
Concerns have similarly been raised by human rights organizations. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) and other civil leaders have warned that denying appropriate medical treatment to Khan violates his constitutional rights as a prisoner.
Legal Challenges and Independent Review
Khosa, a legal figure involved in the case, has written to the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) regarding what he describes as a “secret” medical checkup conducted at Adiala Jail, according to Pakistan Today. This adds another layer of scrutiny to the medical process and raises questions about transparency.
An initial medical report regarding Imran Khan’s health and treatment in jail has already been sent to the Punjab Home Department, detailing his vital signs and an assessment of his eye condition. Geo News reported that the medical exam showed “improvement” in right eye vision, though details remain limited.
The situation remains fluid, with the outcome of the visa applications for Khan’s sons and the findings of the medical report expected to be key developments in the coming days. The focus will be on ensuring Imran Khan receives appropriate medical attention and that the process is conducted with transparency and respect for his rights.
As the legal and political complexities surrounding Imran Khan continue to unfold, the international community and domestic observers will be closely watching how the Pakistani authorities address the concerns raised by his family, party, and human rights advocates. Further updates will depend on the completion of the medical evaluation and the response from the government regarding the visa requests.
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