Islamabad – Concerns have grown over the health of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is serving time in Adiala Jail, after reports surfaced of a serious eye problem that could lead to lasting vision loss without prompt treatment.
The condition in question is central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), a blockage in the vein of the retina that can cause sudden vision issues if not managed quickly. Sources close to the matter say specialists who examined Khan in prison flagged the issue as urgent, noting that jail facilities lack the equipment needed for proper care, such as an operating theatre.
Shaukat Khanum Hospital Issues Statement
Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, founded by Imran Khan, released a statement on January 27, 2026, expressing serious worry about his condition. The hospital said it could not confirm the reports on its own but stressed the need for action.
It added: “While we have every confidence in the abilities and professionalism of the physicians currently looking after him, we nevertheless request that a team of physicians from Shaukat Khanum Hospital be given immediate access to Khan sahib and be allowed to participate in his care so as to reassure all those who are concerned for his welfare.”
The hospital’s request aims to bring in its specialists to join the treatment process and help calm public anxiety.
PTI Demands Hospital Transfer and Family Meetings
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the party Khan founded, described the situation as alarming. It called for Khan to be moved right away to Shaukat Khanum Hospital or another trusted medical centre where he can get full specialist care.
The party also asked for unrestricted visits from family and close aides to update the public on his status. PTI warned that any lasting harm to his sight would fall on the government and jail officials if treatment is held back, despite medical advice and past court directions.
Family’s Response and Doubts
Khan’s sisters, including Noreen Khanum and Aleema Khanum, gathered with PTI workers outside Adiala Jail on the same day. They questioned the reports, saying the family had no official word on any eye issue. Noreen Khanum called the claims possible attempts to cause worry and said her brother appeared fit during earlier visits. She stressed that if true, the family should have been told so he could get hospital treatment without delay.
Aleema Khanum pointed out that no details had been shared with relatives or lawyers, raising questions about how such information spread.
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Background on Imran Khan’s Detention
Khan has been in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi since August 2023, facing various legal cases after his ouster from power in 2022. His health has drawn attention before, with PTI often raising issues about his treatment in custody.
No official confirmation from jail or government sources has come on the eye condition as of now. The case has sparked calls from PTI for the courts to step in, treating it as a health matter rather than a political one.
