BBC editor John Simpson expressed concern over Imran Khan’s treatment in prison.
LONDON/ISLAMABAD – PTI chief Imran Khan has made international headlines over his health and treatment in prison, and now the BBC’s world affairs editor John Simpson has publicly urged Pakistani authorities to ensure proper medical care is provided to the jailed PTI founder.
Simpson, who claimed to have met Imran Khan several times, said the former prime minister’s behavior behind bars was becoming a cause of international concern and warned that it could further damage Pakistan’s image abroad. His post came just days after the Supreme Court ordered authorities to arrange a comprehensive medical examination for Khan, amid continued concerns over his eyesight and access to health professionals.
The cricketer-turned-politician was finally taken to Islamabad’s Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) on Friday morning. A medical team including cardiologists and general medicine examined him before the authorities declared him medically fit and sent him back to Adiala Jail. But instead of ending the case, the hospital incident has sparked a new political storm.
The Supreme Court directed that Khan be taken to Shifa International Hospital, where he was to receive medical attention under a special panel. The court’s directives include the involvement of his personal physician and sister in his medical care, as well as maximum access to his family. However, the government challenged the order and argued that Khan could be treated in a government hospital. Authorities eventually took him to Pims, citing security concerns.
Dramatic security around Shefa had already attracted attention, with police and armored vehicles stationed around the hospital as supporters and journalists gathered in the area. Khan never got there. Instead, he was taken to Pimms, examined for several hours and then sent back to jail.
The verdict has fueled accusations from Khan’s family and the PTI, who maintain that the Supreme Court’s directives have not been implemented in their desired manner.
The PTI has indicated that it may approach the courts if the order is not implemented, while Khan’s family continues to express concern about his medical condition and treatment in prison.
The government has denied allegations of medical negligence and abuse, saying Khan has undergone repeated medical examinations and doctors have not identified a condition requiring emergency treatment. Officials have also disputed claims about his prison conditions.
Khan’s biggest health concern is his eyesight. His legal team had earlier claimed that he suffered severe vision loss in his right eye while in prison. The government has disputed aspects of these claims and said his medical condition has been monitored.
Khan has been behind bars since August 2023. His imprisonment followed several trials and convictions, which he and his supporters have repeatedly described as politically motivated. His imprisonment has sparked repeated political tensions and protests, while questions about his health have now become another flashpoint between the PTI and the government.
Imran Khan was sent back to Adiala Jail after a check-up at the hospital.
The post BBC editor John Simpson raised the alarm over Imran Khan’s treatment in prison appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.
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