Imran Khan loses 85% vision in Pakistani jail, court-appointed report flags 'severe neglect', solitary confinement

The findings describe significant medical deterioration and prolonged isolation, raising serious concerns over his treatment in custody.

The report states that Khan experienced persistent blurred and hazy vision for several months before October 2025.

He allegedly informed prison authorities repeatedly about his worsening condition, but no immediate medical intervention was arranged.

According to the document, Khan had normal 6x6 vision in both eyes just months earlier.

The situation escalated when he reportedly suffered a sudden and complete loss of sight in his right eye.

Only then, the report notes, was an ophthalmologist from the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Hospital called in.

Medical examination revealed a blood clot that caused extensive damage, leaving him with only 15 percent functional vision in that eye despite receiving an injection and limited treatment.

Allegations of medical neglect

The amicus curiae personally visited Khan in jail and documented what he described as visible physical distress.

The report observes that the former prime minister appeared deeply troubled by the loss of eyesight and the delay in receiving specialised medical attention.

It notes that his eyes were watery and that he repeatedly wiped them with a tissue, indicating discomfort.

Beyond the eye condition, the document outlines broader concerns regarding Khan’s overall healthcare.

At 73, he reportedly requires regular medical monitoring, including periodic blood tests.

The report claims such tests were not conducted consistently.

It also states that he did not receive dental consultation over the past two years despite repeated requests.

The findings suggest that Khan was denied access to his personal physicians, even though he is said to be managing multiple health conditions associated with age.

Nearly 2.5 years in solitary confinement

According to the report, Khan has been held in solitary confinement since his transfer to Adiala Jail in October 2023.

The amicus curiae writes that he has remained in the same designated confinement area for nearly two years and four months.

The prolonged isolation has raised concerns about both his physical and psychological well-being.

The report underscores that extended solitary confinement can have significant mental health implications, particularly for elderly detainees with pre-existing health issues.

Khan’s aides have described his incarceration conditions as harsh and deliberate.

The report itself stops short of drawing political conclusions but documents the circumstances surrounding his detention and health status.

Family contact restricted

The report also highlights limitations placed on Khan’s interaction with family members.

It states that his immediate family, including his sisters, were not permitted regular visits despite court orders allowing such meetings.

Following a recent administrative change in the office of the jail superintendent, Khan has reportedly been allowed to meet his wife once a week for approximately 30 minutes.

However, contact with his sons, Kasim and Suleman, has been minimal. The document notes that only two phone calls were permitted throughout 2025.

These restrictions, according to the report, have contributed to his sense of isolation and emotional strain.

Limited access to legal counsel

In addition to medical and family access concerns, the amicus curiae report documents restrictions on Khan’s legal consultations.

It states that for five months, he was not permitted to meet his lead counsel or other members of his legal team.

The report warns that such limitations could affect his ability to prepare his defence and meaningfully participate in ongoing legal proceedings.

It characterises the denial of regular legal access as a serious issue in the context of due process.

Call for immediate medical intervention

The report concludes with a strong recommendation for urgent medical evaluation by specialist ophthalmologists.

It cautions that any further delay could pose additional risks to Khan’s health and well-being.

Safdar emphasises the need to restore consistent medical oversight, as well as ensure regular access to family members and legal representatives in line with court directives.

The findings have intensified scrutiny of conditions inside Adiala Jail and added to ongoing debates surrounding Khan’s incarceration.

While authorities have not publicly responded in detail to the report’s claims, the document places renewed focus on the health and detention conditions of Pakistan’s former prime minister.

As documented in the report, Khan told the court-appointed visitor that he does not expect privileges but only “the basic necessities essential for his survival.”