ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court’s order allowing PTI founder Imran Khan to undergo a medical check-up at Shifa International Hospital has dealt a major blow to the PTI protest planned in Islamabad on September 27.
The court’s decision came amid preparations for the planned march, which critics have described as a potential source of confrontation and violence.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and other PTI figures had linked Khan’s health to their campaign and calls for political mobilisation, according to the statement.
The Supreme Court’s order has now provided a judicial route for Khan to receive medical care outside prison.
PTI Protest Plans Face Major Setback
A three-member Supreme Court bench heard a case concerning Khan’s health and his access to family members and personal doctors.
Khan’s lawyers sought permission for him to receive treatment at a private hospital.
The court approved the request after Khan’s family and lawyers gave assurances concerning the handling of his medical reports. They assured the court that the reports would not be made public or used for political purposes.
Experts Question Special Treatment for Imran Khan
Legal and political experts said Khan has the right to receive all medically necessary treatment. They also said the state remains responsible for protecting his health and providing appropriate specialist care.
They cited Article 25 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law. They said any medical facility available to one prisoner should also be available to other prisoners who meet the same objective medical criteria.
However, they questioned whether the court order creates a special arrangement for Khan.
They said the selection of a privately nominated hospital, the duration of admission and custody arrangements should remain linked to medical advice, prison rules and administrative requirements.
Doctors, they said, should determine whether hospitalisation is necessary and how long it should continue. Political considerations should not replace independent medical advice.
The experts also questioned an arrangement that could keep a convicted prisoner in a private hospital until further court orders.
They argued that such an arrangement could create an indefinite custodial framework without a clear medical basis for discharge.
They said Shifa International Hospital should not become a privileged extension of prison for one political figure while other prisoners remain subject to different rules.
Government to Examine Supreme Court Order
The experts said the courts must apply consistent principles to all citizens.
They said the key question was whether an ordinary prisoner with the same medical condition would receive the same hospital, treatment period and judicial protection.
If not, they said, the arrangement could raise questions about exceptional treatment.
They also said the government must comply with the court order while retaining the right to seek review or clarification through legal channels.
The government, according to the statement, will examine the certified order on legal, medical, administrative and security grounds and consider an appropriate review or appeal.
The experts also stressed the need for practical implementation of the order. They said hospital security, uninterrupted medical care and lawful custody must remain central to the arrangement.
