Imran Khan's sister alleges torture, isolation in jail; health worsens

The sister of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan has alleged that her brother is being tortured and kept in isolation in prison, while his health continues to decline. In a statement on Friday (August 21), she said Khan is undergoing treatment for a retinal haemorrhage and urged authorities to provide immediate and proper medical care.

Khan, who led Pakistan from 2018 to 2022, has been in detention on multiple charges, including corruption and incitement to violence. He and his supporters maintain that the cases are politically motivated, aimed at preventing his return to power. The former prime minister has denied all allegations against him.

According to the sister, Khan's health has worsened significantly during his confinement. She spoke of his living conditions, describing him as "tortured" and "isolated." The retinal haemorrhage, which affects the back of the eye, is a serious condition that can cause vision impairment or loss if untreated. The family fears that the medical attention provided so far may not be sufficient.

This is not the first time that concerns have been raised about Khan's well-being in custody. Earlier this year, his legal team had petitioned the courts for improved access to doctors and family visits. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), his party, has also repeatedly accused the authorities of neglecting his health for political reasons. Several human rights organisations have echoed these concerns, calling for an independent assessment.

Government and prison officials, however, have regularly denied such allegations. They have maintained that all detainees, including Khan, receive proper medical care. In response to previous complaints, the authorities said Khan's health was being monitored and that he was receiving the necessary treatment for his condition.

The latest allegations are likely to add to the pressure on the government, especially as Pakistan navigates a difficult economic and political phase. Khan's supporters view him as a symbol of resistance against the establishment, and his imprisonment has been a rallying point for mass protests. Some of these protests have turned violent, leading to further legal cases against him.

The timing of the sister's remarks also coincides with growing international attention. The United Nations has called for ensuring that the rights of all prisoners are upheld, and several foreign missions in Islamabad have reportedly been monitoring the situation. The appeal for an independent medical examination is a significant step that could influence the narrative around his detention.

A retinal haemorrhage is often the result of high blood pressure, trauma, or other underlying health issues, and its management requires specialised medical equipment and follow-up. In a prison setting, such conditions can become critical if there is any delay in treatment. The family's call for an external medical opinion reflects a broader lack of trust in the prison system's ability to handle complex health problems.

As the matter unfolds, the core question remains: whether the authorities will allow a credible and transparent review of Imran Khan's condition. A failure to do so could exacerbate the political tension, while a responsive approach might help ease some of the concerns.

In the absence of an official response to the latest allegations, the priority for many will be to ensure that the former prime minister's health does not become a casualty of political conflict. The handling of this case will also set a precedent for how prisoners with serious ailments are treated in Pakistan's facilities.