ISLAMABAD: Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry dismissed claims by former Prime Minister Imran Khan that he had been raising concerns about worsening eyesight since October 2025. Chaudhry clarified that the earliest documented complaint was made in January 2026.
During a press briefing, Chaudhry outlined the government’s stance on Imran Khan’s health status. He warned that if it is proven that Imran Khan was experiencing eye problems since October without proper treatment, this could constitute criminal negligence, and accountability measures should be considered.
Chaudhry pointed out that official records contradict Imran Khan’s version of events. He noted that after a meeting on December 2 with Imran Khan’s sister, Uzma Khanum, no mention of any eye issues was made; she reported his health as satisfactory. Furthermore, Imran Khan did not raise any eye-related concerns during his medical assessment on December 9 or during proceedings related to the Toshakhana case on December 20.
According to the minister, the first documented complaint about his eyesight appeared around January 14 or 16, after which Khan was transferred to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for evaluation. He received an injection in his eye on January 24, with all procedures documented. The government has stated it will comply with any court directives regarding further medical examinations, including those ordered by the Supreme Court.
Chaudhry emphasized that safeguarding the health of inmates is the responsibility of the relevant authorities. Since Adiala Jail is under Punjab government jurisdiction, any proven neglect would be addressed accordingly. He reiterated that there is no personal vendetta against Khan, only political differences. The decision to transfer him to PIMS on January 16 was a government initiative, not a request from PTI.
The government is open to arranging medical assessments at Shifa International Hospital Islamabad or by any qualified specialist if needed. Chaudhry urged that health issues should not become politicized and assured that any negligence found would be rectified.
Earlier, Imran Khan claimed in a Supreme Court report that his vision had deteriorated to only 15% in his right eye. He asserted that until October 2025, he had normal 6×6 vision in both eyes but later experienced persistent blurred vision, which he reported to jail authorities. He alleged that inadequate response led to serious damage, and despite treatment, his vision remains severely impaired.
An ophthalmologist from PIMS, Dr. Muhammad Arif, reportedly diagnosed a blood clot causing significant damage to Khan’s eye. Although he received treatment, including an injection, Khan’s vision in the affected eye remains around 15%. The Supreme Court has ordered an eye examination before February 16 and directed the formation of a medical team to evaluate his condition.
