Imran Khan Sent Back to Adiala Jail After Supreme Court-Ordered Hospital Check

Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan was shifted back to Adiala Jail on Friday after undergoing a medical examination at Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad, following directions issued by the Supreme Court.

Khan was moved to the private hospital after midnight and returned to the Rawalpindi jail at around 5 am after doctors completed the examination.

Imran Khan examined by team of doctors

Pakistan Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said the medical examination was conducted under security arrangements in compliance with the Supreme Court's order.

According to Tarar, a team comprising an ophthalmologist, cardiologist and physician carried out a detailed examination and found Khan medically fit. Khan's sister, Uzma Khan, was reportedly present during the medical examination and treatment process.

The former prime minister was subsequently transferred back to Adiala Jail.

Supreme Court order triggers custody dispute

The development comes amid an ongoing legal dispute over Khan's medical treatment and custody.

On August 18, Pakistan's Supreme Court had directed that Khan be transferred to a hospital within two days and remain there until the next hearing scheduled for September 16. However, the circumstances surrounding his transfer and subsequent return to jail have intensified the dispute between the government and Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

Khan's party had warned of legal action, including a possible contempt petition, if the Supreme Court's directions were not followed.

Health concerns remain under scrutiny

Khan, 73, has been lodged in Adiala Jail since his arrest on August 5, 2023, in connection with multiple cases, including corruption charges.

His medical condition has remained a major point of concern for his family and supporters. A medical report submitted before the court reportedly mentioned severe anxiety, while Khan has also been receiving treatment for an eye condition after being diagnosed with right central retinal vein occlusion earlier this year.

He had previously been taken to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad for treatment, while his family and PTI leaders had demanded that he be shifted to a private hospital.

Khan's relatives and party leaders have also raised concerns about his access to medical treatment, family members and legal counsel, allegations that have added to the ongoing political and legal controversy surrounding his detention.

For now, Khan has undergone the Supreme Court-ordered medical examination and has been returned to Adiala Jail, while the case concerning his treatment and custody is expected to continue at the next hearing on September 16.