Former Prime Minister Imran Khan has reportedly lost most of the vision in his right eye while serving time in Adiala Jail. His lawyer, Salman Safdar, shared this update with Pakistan’s Supreme Court.
Safdar said Khan now has only 15 percent vision left in his right eye. He explained that Khan first noticed blurred and hazy vision around three to four months ago. Despite informing the jail superintendent, authorities only provided eye drops. They did not arrange specialized medical treatment at that time.
Diagnosis Reveals Serious Eye Condition
During a recent prison visit, Safdar observed that Khan appeared deeply distressed. Doctors later diagnosed a blood clot in his right eye. The clot caused severe damage and significantly reduced his eyesight.
The lawyer submitted a detailed medical report to Chief Justice Yahya Afridi and Justice Shahid Bilal Hasan. He requested that experts examine Khan and provide proper treatment. He also asked the court to allow Khan better access to his family and improved prison conditions.
Previously, authorities confirmed that Khan underwent a 20 minute medical procedure at PIMS Hospital in Islamabad on 24 January. Minister Ata Tarar had stated at the time that Khan was fine and healthy.
Supreme Court Grants Limited Relief
After reviewing the matter, the Supreme Court allowed Khan to consult his personal doctors inside Adiala Jail. The court also permitted him to speak with his sons, Kasim and Sulaiman, by phone.
Safdar had been the first outside visitor allowed to meet Khan in seven weeks. He said the delay in medical care contributed to the serious damage in his client’s eye.
Prison Conditions Under Scrutiny
The lawyer’s report described Khan’s prison cell as basic but functional. The room contains simple furniture, around 100 books, two dumbbells, a prayer mat, and a television that does not work.
During the summer, the cell reportedly becomes hot and humid. Insects and mosquitoes frequently enter the room. The report also claimed that Khan suffered food poisoning two to three times during the hotter months.
Khan has access to a small 12 by 30 foot lawn during daytime hours. A fellow inmate assists him with cleaning the cell. However, government officials previously described him as “the most privileged prisoner in Pakistan,” stating that he has access to gym equipment and a cook.
Background of Imran Khan’s Imprisonment
Imran Khan served as Pakistan’s Prime Minister from 2018 to 2022. Before entering politics, he captained the national cricket team and led Pakistan to a World Cup victory.
Authorities arrested him in August 2023. Since then, he has faced more than 100 legal cases. These include allegations of leaking state secrets and illegally selling state gifts. Khan has consistently denied all charges and claims they are politically motivated.
His arrest sparked widespread protests across the country. Security forces responded with a strict crackdown. Thousands of supporters were arrested, and many were injured during clashes.
The latest development regarding his health has added new concerns to an already tense political situation in Pakistan.
