Imran Khan’s party is pursuing contempt action regarding the transfer of their imprisoned leader to a hospital
The party of Pakistan’s jailed ex-prime minister Imran Khan submitted a contempt petition against the government on Saturday after authorities transferred the cricketer-turned-politician to a state-run hospital instead of the private facility mandated by the top court, according to party officials. “The petition seeks action against the prime minister, law minister, information minister,” and other government officials, stated Naeem Panjutha, a legal advisor for the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, adding that it also demands Khan’s treatment at the private hospital specified by the court.
Khan, who continues to enjoy significant popularity in Pakistan, has been incarcerated since August 2023 on charges he deems politically motivated, following a fallout with the country’s influential military that resulted in his ousting from office. His arrest ignited widespread protests across the nation, including the takeover of military facilities, and the belief that he was forcibly returned to prison could reignite similar demonstrations.
A three-judge bench on Tuesday ordered the government to move Khan from Adiala Jail to the private Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad within two days for a medical examination.
Officials took Khan to the state-run Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) overnight on Friday for a brief check-up before returning him to jail, denying him access to his personal physician. The party cites the incident as a breach of court orders.
The PTI interprets the order as necessitating Khan to stay under medical supervision until at least mid-September.
Khan’s sister, Uzma Khan, who attended the examination at PIMS, informed the media that although her brother is physically fit, “Khan told me that he is being repeatedly tortured in prison.” The interior and law ministries, along with jail authorities, have not provided a response to Reuters regarding the allegations of torture.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stated on Friday that Khan was evaluated at PIMS due to security concerns.
Khan’s supporters had gathered along the streets of Islamabad overnight, and PTI leaders assert that this event will heighten pressure and enhance preparations for the upcoming protest march on September 27.
