‘If the need arises’: Govt hints PTI founder Imran Khan may be sent abroad for medical treatment

The Pakistani government has suggested that the PTI founder, Imran Khan, may be sent abroad for medical treatment if necessary. This possibility emerged after the government contacted the Supreme Court seeking clarification on the extent of the recent relief granted. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry made the statement during a tense Senate session in response to Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas' concerns regarding inadequate health facilities for former Premier Imran Khan and other detained PTI leaders, including Dr Yasmin Rashid and Ejaz Chaudhry.

Chaudhry affirmed that the government would ensure medical treatment for Imran Khan in a government hospital or, if needed, in another facility. He acknowledged the government's acquisition of a hospital in the United Kingdom, referencing former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's treatment there. Chaudhry reiterated that the government would adhere to the Supreme Court's decision "in letter and spirit."

The Opposition Leader argued that the system had "collapsed" and that it was the government's responsibility to provide adequate health facilities to prisoners. He highlighted the case of Dr Rashid, who was imprisoned in Kot Lakhpat jail despite suffering from cancer and asthma, and called for her to be transferred to a hospital or granted house arrest.