Former Prime Minister Imran Khan underwent a second medical procedure for a serious eye condition at PIMS hospital under cover of night, triggering a fierce backlash from PTI leaders who condemn the secrecy surrounding his health.
Key Highlights
- Imran Khan received a second anti-VEGF injection for retinal vein occlusion.
- The procedure took place at PIMS hospital during the early hours of Tuesday.
- PTI leadership and family members claim they were not informed in advance.
- Government officials maintain the process followed all legal and medical protocols.
- A third injection is scheduled for March 24 to continue treatment.
Midnight Medical Procedure at PIMS
Medical staff at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) confirmed that Imran Khan was brought to the facility on February 24. Specialists from Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital and PIMS administered a second dose of an anti-VEGF injection. Doctors reported the procedure as a day-care surgery, stating the patient remained stable throughout the process before being moved back to Adiala Jail.
PTI Questions Lack of Transparency
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) voiced strong objections to the timing and manner of the hospital visit. Party Chairman Gohar Ali Khan stated he received a message about the treatment only at 2 AM, without any prior notification. The party described the government’s actions as clandestine, suggesting that performing medical procedures in the dead of night raises serious questions about the patient’s safety and rights.
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Family Demands Independent Care
Aleema Khanum, sister of the former premier, rejected the medical reports issued by government facilities. She alleged that doctors at PIMS face pressure to withhold information and demanded that her brother be treated at Shifa International Hospital. The family insists that any future medical interventions must occur in the presence of Imran Khan’s personal physicians to verify the diagnosis and treatment quality.
Imran Khan was diagnosed with right central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) in late January, a condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if not managed with regular specialist care.
