Bushra Bibi, the wife of incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former premier Imran Khan, was moved from prison to a hospital on Thursday night. The update was shared on Friday by PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan via a post on X.
Barrister Gohar stated that he was informed of the transfer through a late-night message and is currently awaiting a detailed briefing regarding her treatment. He emphasized that access to medical care and family visits are basic legal rights.
Following the hospitalization, Gohar has requested that family members be allowed to meet with Bushra Bibi. He also called for meetings between Imran Khan and his family, urging that the former premier also be shifted to a hospital for urgent medical treatment.
Medical History and Concerns
Both Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi have faced significant health challenges while incarcerated at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail. In March, Bushra Bibi underwent a medical examination at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) after reporting headaches, blurred vision, and black spots in her right eye.
The examination, conducted by Dr. Muhammad Arif Khan, diagnosed her with posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), myopia, and astigmatism. She was prescribed medication, eye drops, and glasses, with a recommendation for a follow-up check-up after four weeks.
Similarly, Imran Khan has dealt with deteriorating eyesight. A report submitted to the Supreme Court by lawyer Salman Safdar indicated that the former premier had lost 85% of the vision in his right eye.
Imran underwent a minor eye procedure in late January and received multiple intravitreal anti-VEGF injections. By March, PIMS reported that his vision had shown significant improvement following the second dose, and a third dose was administered in late March.
Potential Next Steps
Authorities may decide whether to grant the requested family visits for both incarcerated individuals. There is also a possibility that the government could respond to demands for Imran Khan to be moved to a medical facility for his own treatment.
Depending on the briefing Barrister Gohar receives, the PTI may further escalate its requests for specialized medical access. Future legal petitions could potentially be filed to ensure ongoing medical supervision for the couple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Bushra Bibi moved to the hospital?
While the specific immediate trigger was not detailed, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan stated that her health is “too serious” and that she was shifted to a medical facility on Thursday night.
What are the previous medical diagnoses for Bushra Bibi?
In March, she was diagnosed with posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), myopia, and astigmatism in her right eye, experiencing symptoms such as blurred vision, black spots, and flashes in the dark.
What is the legal reason for the couple’s incarceration?
Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi are serving 17-year sentences in the Toshakhana-II case, which involves allegations that they unlawfully retained a Bulgari jewellery set gifted by the Saudi crown prince.
Do you believe medical needs should grant incarcerated political figures more frequent access to external hospitals?
