12 February 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : Pakistan’s Supreme Court has ordered the formation of a medical board to examine jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan following claims that he is suffering from vision loss while in custody. The directive comes amid growing concern over Khan’s health and renewed political debate surrounding his incarceration, which has remained a contentious issue both domestically and internationally.
The apex court’s order was issued during a hearing on petitions related to Khan’s imprisonment, where his legal team raised serious concerns about his physical condition. Lawyers representing the former premier told the court that Khan’s eyesight had deteriorated significantly during his time in jail, potentially due to inadequate medical care and prolonged confinement.
Taking note of the submission, the Supreme Court directed authorities to constitute a special medical board comprising qualified and independent doctors to assess Khan’s health. The board has been instructed to conduct a comprehensive medical examination and submit a detailed report to the court within a stipulated timeframe.
Imran Khan, the founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and former prime minister, has been behind bars since his conviction in multiple cases following his removal from office. His imprisonment has been a major flashpoint in Pakistan’s political landscape, with his supporters alleging political victimisation and denial of basic rights.
During the hearing, the court observed that access to adequate medical care is a fundamental right of every prisoner, regardless of political status. The bench emphasised that the state is legally bound to ensure the health and dignity of individuals in custody and that any credible health complaint must be addressed without delay.
Khan’s lawyers argued that the former prime minister has faced restricted access to doctors of his choice and limited medical facilities. They claimed that repeated requests for specialised eye examinations had not been adequately addressed, leading to worsening vision problems. The defence also cited Khan’s age and previous health issues as factors that necessitate urgent medical attention.
Government representatives, however, maintained that Khan has been provided with medical facilities in accordance with prison rules. They told the court that jail authorities have ensured routine check-ups and that there has been no deliberate neglect of his health. Nevertheless, the Supreme Court decided that an independent medical assessment was necessary to remove any ambiguity.
The court’s intervention comes at a sensitive time, as Pakistan continues to grapple with political instability and deep divisions following recent elections and legal proceedings involving opposition leaders. Imran Khan remains one of the most influential political figures in the country, and developments related to his health are closely watched by supporters and critics alike.
PTI leaders welcomed the court’s order, calling it a step toward transparency and justice. They said the medical board’s findings would help clarify the true condition of Khan’s health and counter what they describe as misinformation. Party leaders reiterated their demand for Khan’s release, citing humanitarian grounds and alleged procedural flaws in the cases against him.
Human rights activists have also weighed in, stressing that the treatment of high-profile political prisoners sets an important precedent. They argue that ensuring proper healthcare for detainees is essential to upholding the rule of law and preventing abuse of state power.
Political analysts say the Supreme Court’s decision reflects an attempt to balance legal process with humanitarian considerations. While the court has not commented on the merits of Khan’s conviction, its focus on his health underscores the judiciary’s role in safeguarding fundamental rights, even amid politically charged circumstances.
The issue of Imran Khan’s health has previously sparked public debate, with conflicting reports emerging from official sources and his legal team. The claim of vision loss has added a new dimension to these concerns, intensifying scrutiny of prison conditions and medical oversight.
The medical board is expected to include specialists relevant to Khan’s reported condition, including ophthalmologists. Its report will likely influence future court proceedings, particularly any pleas for medical relief or changes in custody arrangements.
As the country watches closely, the Supreme Court has reiterated that its order should not be politicised and must be implemented strictly in accordance with the law. The court made it clear that transparency and accountability are paramount when dealing with matters involving the health of individuals in state custody.
For now, the formation of the medical board offers a measure of reassurance to Khan’s supporters, while authorities prepare to comply with the court’s directive. The findings of the examination are expected to play a key role in shaping the next phase of legal and political developments surrounding the former prime minister.
Summary
Pakistan’s Supreme Court has ordered a medical board to examine jailed former prime minister Imran Khan after his lawyers claimed he is suffering from vision loss, stressing prisoners’ right to proper healthcare.