Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis call for immediate treatment for Imran Khan

SLAMABAD: Former fast bowlers Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis on Saturday called for immediate medical attention for the incarcerated 1996 World Cup-winning captain and former prime minister, Imran Khan, after reports emerged that he has lost 85 per cent of vision in his right eye.

Former Prime Minister Imran Khan reportedly informed his personal lawyer, Barrister Salman Safdar, during a long-requested meeting at Adiala Jail last week that only 15 per cent vision remains in his right eye.

Following the news, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) activists took to social media, urging authorities to provide immediate medical facilities to the former premier, stating that access to healthcare is a fundamental human right.

A social media post on Facebook, referring to the Supreme Court-appointed amicus curiae on the health and prison conditions of the detained former premier, described the reports about his eyesight as “disturbing and inhumane treatment, psychological torture, and deliberate medical neglect.” The post added that this had resulted in 85 per cent vision loss in his right eye.

Other reports stated, “There has been no improvement in the affected eye… Imran Khan urgently needs immediate and proper medical treatment.”

Another social media post said, “Imran Khan’s eye condition is extremely concerning. Denying access to his personal doctors and keeping his family away is a serious violation of fundamental human rights. Those responsible today should fear a future when the same treatment is meted out to them.”

According to Barrister Salman Safdar’s report, “Despite treatment and injections, vision in the right eye has remained at only 15 per cent. During the meeting, Imran Khan had tears in his eyes and repeatedly wiped them with a handkerchief, indicating he was clearly in pain.”

Meanwhile, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar announced on Saturday that the former prime minister would receive specialised treatment for his deteriorating eyesight at a dedicated medical facility.

In a statement on social media platform X, Tarar said ophthalmology experts at a specialised hospital would conduct further examinations and provide treatment. A detailed medical report would subsequently be submitted to the Supreme Court.