Imran Khan’s party seeks contempt action over jailed leader’s hospital move

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's political party has filed a contempt petition against the government, alleging the leader was transferred from a private hospital to a state-run facility against court orders. Legal advisor Naeem Panjutha stated the petition seeks action against the prime minister, law minister, information minister and other officials, demanding Khan's immediate transfer back to the private hospital ordered by the court.

Imran Khan has been incarcerated since August 2023, facing politically-motivated charges, following a dispute with the military that led to his removal from office. His removal sparked nationwide protests and concerns that he was forcibly returned to jail, potentially reigniting similar demonstrations. A three-judge court directed the government to transfer Khan to the private Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad within two days for medical examination.

Instead, Khan was taken to the state-run Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for a brief check-up on Friday and returned to jail, allegedly denied access to his personal physician, which the party claims is a breach of court orders. Khan's sister, Uzma Khan, who accompanied him to the PIMS examination, reported that while her brother is physically well, he claims he is being "repeatedly tortured in prison".

The interior and law ministries, as well as jail authorities, have declined to comment on the allegations of torture. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar suggested Khan was examined at PIMS due to security risks. Khan's supporters have demonstrated in Islamabad, with PTI leaders indicating this episode will heighten pressure and bolster preparations for a planned protest march on September 27.