13 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu

4 min

International RelationsPolity & GovernanceNEWS

Imran Khan's deteriorating eyesight raises concerns amid ongoing imprisonment

Imran Khan reports significant vision loss; medical board ordered by Supreme Court.

Pakistan’s jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan has told a court-appointed lawyer that authorities at Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail repeatedly ignored his complaints about deteriorating eyesight and that he is now left with only “15% vision” in his right eye. Advocate Salman Safdar, appointed as amicus curiae by the Pakistani Supreme Court, visited Mr. Khan at Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail and led a detailed report about his living conditions and health on February 10.

Following Mr. Safdar’s report, the Supreme Court on Thursday ordered Pakistani authorities to set up a medical board to examine Mr. Khan’s eye, and allow him to speak with his children, local media reported.

Mr. Khan, who was arrested in August 2023, was initially kept in the district jail in Attock, and then moved to Adiala in October where he has remained in solitary confinement.

Key Facts

Imran Khan reported only 15% vision in his right eye.

Salman Safdar, appointed as amicus curiae, visited Mr. Khan in jail and prepared a report.

Mr. Khan claims jail authorities ignored his complaints about deteriorating eyesight.

The Supreme Court ordered Pakistani authorities to set up a medical board to examine Mr. Khan's eye.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper 2: International Relations, Polity

Connects to syllabus topics like: Role of Judiciary, International Organizations, Political Systems

Potential question types: Statement-based, Analytical

Visual Insights

Imran Khan's Eyesight Deterioration

Key statistic from the news: Imran Khan's vision in his right eye is reportedly down to 15%.

Vision in Right Eye: 15%

More Information

Background

The news about Imran Khan's health and imprisonment touches upon several important aspects of international relations and domestic politics. Understanding the background of Pakistan's political landscape and the role of its judiciary is crucial. The concept of judicial review, where the judiciary can examine the legality of executive actions, is relevant here. Also, the history of civilian-military relations in Pakistan is a key factor in understanding the current situation. Pakistan's political history has been marked by periods of military rule and civilian governments. The interplay between political parties, the military, and the judiciary has shaped the country's trajectory. The rise and fall of political leaders, including Imran Khan, are often intertwined with these power dynamics. Understanding the role of the Supreme Court of Pakistan and its interventions in political matters is essential. International scrutiny of human rights and the rule of law is also relevant. Various international organizations monitor the treatment of political prisoners and the fairness of legal proceedings. The principles of due process and fair trial are fundamental to a just legal system. These principles are often invoked in cases involving political figures and human rights concerns. Finally, the relationship between Pakistan and other countries, including India, can be affected by internal political developments. Political instability and changes in leadership can impact regional dynamics and diplomatic relations. Understanding the broader geopolitical context is important for analyzing the implications of events within Pakistan.

Latest Developments

Recent developments in Pakistan's political landscape include ongoing political tensions and legal challenges faced by various political figures. The outcome of these legal battles and political maneuvers will likely shape the country's future political direction. The role of the Election Commission of Pakistan in ensuring fair and transparent elections is also crucial. The economic challenges facing Pakistan, including inflation and debt, add another layer of complexity to the political situation. The government's ability to address these economic issues will have a significant impact on its popularity and stability. International financial institutions like the IMF play a key role in providing financial assistance and guidance. Looking ahead, the focus will be on the upcoming elections and the formation of a new government. The ability of political parties to form coalitions and address the country's challenges will be critical. The involvement of the military in political affairs will continue to be a subject of scrutiny and debate. Furthermore, the international community will be watching closely to see how Pakistan navigates its internal challenges and maintains its relationships with other countries. The country's role in regional security and counter-terrorism efforts remains important.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key facts related to Imran Khan's imprisonment that are important for the UPSC Prelims exam?

Key facts include Imran Khan's claim of significant vision loss (15% in his right eye), the visit of amicus curiae Salman Safdar to assess his condition, and the Supreme Court's order for a medical examination. Remember the approximate dates: arrest in August 2023, Safdar's visit on February 10.

Exam Tip

Focus on names, dates, and percentages for Prelims. Questions might be framed around 'who visited Imran Khan in jail?' or 'what was the percentage of vision loss reported?'

2. What is the concept of 'judicial review' and how is it relevant in the context of Imran Khan's case?

Judicial review is the power of the judiciary to examine the legality of actions by the executive and legislative branches of government. In Imran Khan's case, the Supreme Court's order for a medical board to examine his health is an example of judicial review, ensuring the government is acting lawfully and protecting his rights as a prisoner.

3. How does the news about Imran Khan's imprisonment and health impact Pakistan's political landscape?

Imran Khan's imprisonment and reported health issues contribute to the ongoing political tensions in Pakistan. These events can influence public opinion, potentially leading to protests or increased support for his party. The situation also highlights the role and perceived impartiality of the judiciary and the Election Commission of Pakistan.

4. What are the key dates and personalities associated with Imran Khan's situation that are important to remember?

Important dates include August 2023 (Imran Khan's arrest) and February 10 (Salman Safdar's visit to the jail). Key personalities are Imran Khan and Salman Safdar (the amicus curiae).

Exam Tip

Create a timeline for easy recall. Mnemonics can help remember names and dates.

5. What are the implications of Imran Khan's deteriorating eyesight on his fundamental rights as a prisoner?

Deteriorating eyesight raises concerns about prisoner rights, specifically the right to healthcare and humane treatment. If his complaints were ignored, it could be a violation of these rights. The Supreme Court's intervention underscores the importance of protecting these rights, even for prisoners.

6. What recent developments have occurred regarding Imran Khan's health and legal situation?

Recent developments include the Supreme Court ordering Pakistani authorities to set up a medical board to examine Imran Khan's eye and allowing him to speak with his children. This followed a report by Salman Safdar detailing Khan's living conditions and health concerns.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Supreme Court of Pakistan: 1. It is the final court of appeal in Pakistan. 2. It has the power of judicial review over legislation. 3. The Chief Justice of Pakistan is appointed by the Prime Minister. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Supreme Court of Pakistan is indeed the final court of appeal in the country. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The Supreme Court has the power of judicial review, allowing it to examine the constitutionality of laws. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: The Chief Justice of Pakistan is NOT appointed by the Prime Minister. The appointment process involves the President and other senior judges.

2. In the context of Pakistan's political system, what is the role of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP)?

A.To advise the President on matters of national security
B.To conduct free and fair elections
C.To formulate economic policy
D.To oversee the military's operations

Show Answer

Answer: B

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is primarily responsible for conducting free and fair elections in the country. This includes voter registration, delimitation of constituencies, and overseeing the electoral process to ensure its integrity.

3. Which of the following statements is NOT correct regarding Imran Khan's recent imprisonment, as per the provided information?

A.Imran Khan was initially kept in the district jail in Attock.
B.He was moved to Adiala jail in October.
C.He is now left with only “15% vision” in his left eye.
D.The Supreme Court ordered Pakistani authorities to set up a medical board to examine Mr. Khan’s eye.

Show Answer

Answer: C

Option C is NOT correct. According to the provided information, Imran Khan stated that he is now left with only “15% vision” in his RIGHT eye, not his left eye.