RAWALPINDI, Pakistan — Pakistan's Information Minister Ataullah Tarar announced on Saturday that former Prime Minister Imran Khan, currently imprisoned in Rawalpindi for a corruption case, will receive specialized treatment for a severe eye condition amid reports of near-total vision loss in his right eye. The update comes days after Pakistan's Supreme Court ordered a medical evaluation, addressing growing concerns over the cricketer-turned-politician's deteriorating eyesight.
In a post on X, Tarar stated that Khan will undergo an examination by leading eye specialists as part of his ongoing treatment, which began in late January following the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder-chairman's claim of "partial loss of vision" in his right eye. The minister did not disclose the specific medical facility or treatment date but emphasized the need to curb public speculation. “A detailed report will also be submitted to the Supreme Court. Conjecture, speculations, and efforts to turn this into political rhetoric and mileage for vested interests may please be avoided,” Tarar posted.
Medical records indicate that as recently as October 2025, Khan had normal 6/6 vision in both eyes. In the subsequent months, he experienced continuous blurred and hazy vision, lodging multiple complaints with jail authorities. This progressed to a sudden and total loss of vision in his right eye, prompting further intervention.
An ophthalmologist at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Hospital in Islamabad diagnosed a blood clot as the cause of significant damage to the eye. Despite receiving treatment, including an injection, only 15% vision remains in the affected eye, according to the medical findings.
Earlier this week, Khan's lawyer and PTI member Salman Safdar informed the Supreme Court that the former premier had lost roughly 85% of vision in his right eye. In response, the court directed authorities to arrange a medical assessment by a panel of doctors and facilitate a telephone call between Khan and his two UK-based sons before February 16.
The developments highlight ongoing health concerns for Khan, who has been serving his sentence in Rawalpindi jail, as his legal team and supporters continue to monitor the situation closely while awaiting the results of the specialized treatment.