Naqvi slams 'politicisation' of Imran's health

Interior minister says routine eye treatment exaggerated for political mileage

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Interior Minister and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi

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ISLAMABAD:

Amid a gruelling blame game between the government and the embattled PTI, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Tuesday criticised what he described as the "politicisation" of the jailed PTI founder's health, accusing "certain people" of exploiting the issue for political objectives.

Imran Khan, 73, has been in jail since August 2023, serving a 14-year sentence on corruption charges, one of dozens of cases he and his party say were made up to keep him out of politics, a charge the government denies.

Khan was taken to PIMS earlier this month for a "20-minute eye procedure", but the visit was kept under wraps, sparking media speculation and deepening concerns among his party leaders and family members.

Dismissing what he termed "misinformation" on social media about Khan's health, the interior minister urged the public to rely on "verified reports" rather than "propaganda" that, he said, had whipped up unnecessary panic and anxiety. He added that the government and medical teams had acted responsibly and transparently in providing treatment to the former premier.

Briefing the media on Khan's medical care and living conditions amid concerns over his eyesight, Naqvi claimed that the jailed PTI founder had been taken to hospital for an eye injection under strict medical precautions.

"This was a routine procedure. Doctors were already conducting regular check-ups. The injection was administered at the hospital as a precaution to avoid any risk of infection or complications," he said, adding that all prisoners are entitled to medical treatment under the law.

Naqvi stated that opposition leaders from the National Assembly and the Senate, along with other representatives, visited the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences and met for nearly one and a half hours with the doctors treating Khan.

He said the doctors also consulted Imran Khan's personal physicians via phone for 45 minutes, answered detailed questions, and described the treatment as "excellent" and "the best possible care."

According to Naqvi, the medical check-up had been delayed for three days due to opposition and family objections, specifically naming Imran's sister, Aleema Khan.

"Aleema Khan told party members that if we agree to everything, the issue will lose momentum. Because of such vetoes, the medical check-up was delayed for three days. On one hand, they express sympathy; on the other, politics is being played over the matter," he said.

Naqvi alleged that some people were trying to gain political mileage by exaggerating the situation. "Most political leaders were on board, but Aleema Khan repeatedly vetoed decisions. When all facts were presented, they were present, yet they still sought to capitalise on the issue," he added.

He reiterated that Imran Khan's medical care was being handled in accordance with legal requirements and standard procedures.

The developments come amid growing concerns over Imran Khan's deteriorating eyesight in custody. During recent proceedings, the chief justice of Pakistan observed that all prisoners, including Imran, must receive equal medical facilities and that health concerns take precedence.

The apex court ordered the formation of a medical team to examine his eye condition and directed authorities to ensure telephonic contact with his children before February 16.

Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan assured the bench that access to ophthalmologists would be provided and that phone calls with his sons, Qasim and Salman, would be facilitated.

Barrister Salman Safdar, acting as amicus curiae, reported that Imran had experienced a sudden and complete loss of vision in his right eye and retained only 15% vision despite prior treatment.

Meanwhile, a sit-in outside Parliament House entered its fifth day on Tuesday, with party leaders and family members demanding access to the jailed PTI founder amid mounting health concerns.

TTAP spokesperson Akhunzada Hussain Ahmed Yousafzai said the protest, which began on Friday, sought permission for at least one family member or party representative to meet Imran and dispel rumours regarding his condition.

Aleema Khan reiterated that the family rejected the medical report issued by jail-appointed doctors and insisted that he be examined at Shifa International Hospital under the supervision of his personal physician. She said a press conference would be held following any such meeting.

Separately, Naqvi addressed the deteriorating security situation, citing recent terrorist attacks in Bajaur and Shangla districts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

"The fire of terrorism is increasing in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Incidents are occurring daily. The K-P government must intensify its focus. Police are fighting well, but without unified political leadership, no campaign can succeed," he said.

He also expressed concern over unrest in Balochistan, warning that attempts to destabilise governance or incite unrest, particularly through digital platforms, were against the public interest.

Naqvi accused India of acting as a proxy behind recent terrorist attacks, alleging a strategy of "posing as victims while orchestrating violence." He added that Islamabad was raising the issue on international platforms to "counter this tactic."

The interior minister urged political stakeholders to act responsibly. "Sensible voices exist everywhere, but they are often unheard. The public must decide whether to stand with reason or with those fuelling tension," he said.