Rawalpindi’s Anti-Terrorism Court delivered a blow to PTI chief Imran Khan on Thursday, rejecting his plea for private medical consultations while in custody. The former premier argued for access to his own physicians amid health worries, but the judge ruled that existing jail protocols sufficiently address his needs.
According to Geo News, Khan’s counsel highlighted his status as a bail-bound suspect in the GHQ assault probe, insisting criminal courts lack authority over undertrial custody terms. The prosecution fired back, emphasizing that no prisoner under Pakistan’s jail manual can appoint private doctors; all care falls under official oversight.
PTI has escalated the matter to the Supreme Court, seeking broader visitation rights. This follows Khan’s recent eye treatment at PIMS, where vascular issues were diagnosed affecting his vision. The party alleges deliberate delays in disclosing his medical reports by authorities.
National Assembly opposition head Mahmud Achakzai pressed PM Shehbaz for action, calling trusted-doctor assessments vital under ethical and human rights standards. Khan’s relatives lament a year-plus denial of their doctor’s access. Adiala Jail officials affirm ‘B-class’ perks for the 72-year-old: custom food, medical aid, books, workouts, and strolls.
Detained since August 2023 after convictions in various cases, Khan portrays them as fabricated post his no-confidence removal. PTI frames the court’s stance as health neglect in a broader suppression campaign. With appeals pending, the saga spotlights Pakistan’s fraught justice system and inmate rights debates, potentially fueling more protests from Khan’s ardent base.