ISLAMABAD – Former prime minister Imran Khan remains at Adiala Jail as uncertainty surrounds his transfer to Shifa International Hospital.
The Supreme Court had ordered authorities to move Khan to the Islamabad hospital. The order was issued on August 18 for medical assessment and treatment.
The court directed that the transfer take place within two days. Khan was also allowed to remain at the hospital until the next hearing on September 16.
However, the government challenged the Supreme Court’s decision. The Islamabad chief commissioner filed a review petition against the transfer order.
The government argued that the court’s interim order should be reviewed. Officials also raised concerns about sending a prisoner to a private hospital.
The review petition has now faced an obstacle. The Supreme Court registrar’s office returned the government’s petition on Thursday.
According to reports, the petition was returned because of incomplete paper books. The government may file it again after addressing the objections. The development has increased uncertainty over the implementation of the transfer order. The deadline set by the Supreme Court is also drawing closer.
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar had earlier said authorities were taking necessary steps. He also indicated that the government wanted changes to the court’s direction.
The government has maintained that medical treatment should follow established procedures. It has questioned whether the private hospital arrangement should apply in this case.
Meanwhile, Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has demanded immediate implementation of the Supreme Court order. The party has warned of legal action over any further delay.
The Supreme Court’s original order followed petitions concerning Khan’s medical treatment. The court also directed authorities to form a medical board.
The board is expected to assess Khan’s condition and oversee his treatment. His personal doctor and sister were also mentioned in connection with the medical arrangements. Khan has remained in Adiala Jail since his imprisonment began in 2023. His legal team and family have repeatedly raised concerns about his health.
The Supreme Court has also issued directions concerning family meetings. Khan’s treatment and access to medical care remain central issues in the ongoing proceedings.
The latest development leaves the timing of his hospital transfer unclear. The government’s review petition could be filed again after correcting the reported deficiencies.
For now, Imran Khan remains at the centre of a legal dispute over his medical treatment. Further proceedings could determine whether the transfer order is implemented as issued.
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The situation is being closely watched by Khan’s supporters, government officials and legal observers. The Supreme Court’s next steps are expected to clarify the matter.
