ISLAMABAD: The federal government has filed a review petition before the Supreme Court challenging its order directing the transfer of PTI founder Imran Khan from Adiala Jail to a private hospital in Islamabad.
The review petition was filed on Wednesday, a day after the Supreme Court ordered that the former prime minister be shifted to Shifa International Hospital within two days for medical examination and treatment.
Government calls order discriminatory
The government has described the Supreme Court’s interim order as discriminatory, arguing that it gives special treatment to one prisoner and could have wider implications for the country’s prison system.
According to the review plea, the August 18 order allegedly exceeds the court’s jurisdiction and overlooks existing prison rules governing the transfer and treatment of inmates.
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar had already indicated that the government would approach the Supreme Court seeking modifications to the order, particularly regarding treatment at a private facility.
What did the Supreme Court order?
On Tuesday, the Supreme Court directed authorities to transfer Imran Khan from Adiala Jail to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad.
The court also ordered the formation of a medical board, including specialists and Khan’s personal physician, to assess his condition and oversee his treatment. The order additionally provided for weekly family visits and phone calls with his sons.
The ruling came amid continuing concerns over the 73-year-old former prime minister’s health, including reported problems with his vision and other medical complaints.
Government says treatment is not the issue
Government officials have maintained that they are not opposed to Imran Khan receiving necessary medical treatment. Their objection is primarily to the Supreme Court directing that the treatment take place at a private hospital.
According to the government’s position, prisoners should generally receive treatment at government hospitals unless there are compelling medical reasons requiring otherwise. Officials have also warned that the order could create a precedent for other prisoners to seek similar arrangements.
PTI welcomes Supreme Court order
PTI has welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision and urged authorities to implement it without delay.
The government’s review petition now places the hospital-transfer issue back before the Supreme Court, where the court will decide whether to maintain, modify or reconsider its earlier directions.
The legal development comes as Imran Khan remains in prison and continues to be a central figure in Pakistan’s political landscape.
