The issue of Imran Khan eye treatment has once again brought political and legal tensions to the forefront in Pakistan. Leaders of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have renewed their demand that party founder Imran Khan be granted access to his personal doctor and family members during his medical care. The matter gained attention after the government confirmed that the former prime minister was shifted overnight to a hospital in Islamabad for further treatment of his diagnosed eye condition.
According to official statements, Imran Khan was transferred late at night to Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims), where he received a second dose of an anti-VEGF intravitreal injection. This procedure is part of the ongoing treatment for central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), a serious eye condition that can affect vision if not managed properly. After the procedure was completed, he was shifted back to Adiala Jail.
The development surrounding Imran Khan eye treatment has raised concerns within PTI, particularly regarding transparency and access. PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan stated that the party was not informed in advance about the timing of the second medical procedure. Speaking near Adiala Jail, he questioned why the examination was conducted at night and why family members or personal physicians were not allowed to be present.
Gohar Ali Khan emphasized that medical care should not become a matter of political disagreement. He reiterated that the former premier’s treatment would be more appropriate at Shifa International Hospital, in the presence of his family and personal doctors. According to him, there is no justification for restricting access if the matter is purely medical.
The controversy surrounding Imran Khan eye treatment is also linked to broader political tensions. Imran Khan, 74, has been in jail since August 2023 following convictions that he and his party describe as politically motivated. PTI leaders argue that ensuring proper medical access is a basic human right and should not be influenced by political considerations.
Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), the condition diagnosed in Imran Khan’s case, occurs when the main vein draining blood from the retina becomes blocked. Anti-VEGF injections are commonly used worldwide to reduce swelling and improve blood flow in the retina. Medical experts generally recommend regular monitoring and multiple doses, depending on the patient’s response to treatment. The government has also announced that a third injection is scheduled for March 24, indicating that the treatment plan is ongoing.
Another PTI leader, Ali Muhammad Khan, also questioned the secrecy surrounding the hospital visit. Speaking outside the Supreme Court, he asked why the transfer took place at night if everything was routine and transparent. He maintained that simply informing the family and party leadership beforehand could have prevented confusion and speculation.
On the government’s side, Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, stated that the procedure at Pims was successful and that the former prime minister showed improvement after the first injection. He added that after receiving clearance from the medical team, Imran Khan was safely returned to jail.
The debate over Imran Khan eye treatment reflects a larger issue in Pakistan’s political landscape — trust. PTI leaders have made it clear that they do not intend to take any illegal or unconstitutional steps. Gohar Ali Khan stressed that the party believes in political and constitutional struggle, not confrontation. He stated that Pakistan’s challenges require political solutions and dialogue, not further escalation.
At the same time, the government maintains that proper medical procedures are being followed and that the former premier is receiving necessary care under medical supervision. However, the lack of prior communication about the late-night hospital transfer has fueled suspicion and criticism from the opposition.
As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on transparency and the health of the former prime minister. The next scheduled medical procedure may again draw public attention, especially if concerns about access and communication are not addressed beforehand.
The matter of Imran Khan eye treatment goes beyond a single medical procedure. It has become a symbol of the ongoing political divide in the country. Whether through dialogue, improved communication, or greater transparency, resolving these concerns will be crucial not only for the former premier’s health but also for maintaining political stability in Pakistan.
