Former PM Imran Khan Undergoes Eye Procedure in PIMS, Islamabad

1. Government Confirmation and Medical Details

On Thursday, January 29, 2026, Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar confirmed that the PTI founder was shifted from Adiala Jail to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad for a medical procedure. According to official reports, the transfer took place late Saturday night (January 24) following recommendations from eye specialists who examined him within the prison. The minister stated that a 20-minute minor procedure was performed with Khan’s written consent. The government maintains that his vital signs remained stable throughout the process and that he was returned to jail early Sunday morning in “absolutely healthy” condition with specific medical instructions for recovery.

2. PTI Claims: Risk of Permanent Vision Loss

The government’s “routine” narrative stands in sharp contrast to the alarms raised by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Earlier this week, the party claimed that credible reports indicated Khan was suffering from Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) in his right eye a serious condition caused by a blockage in the retinal vein. Medical experts associated with the party warned that without immediate and specialized care, CRVO could lead to permanent damage to his eyesight. PTI leadership has criticized the lack of a retina specialist at PIMS and demanded that Khan be examined by his personal physicians, including experts from Shaukat Khanum Hospital, to ensure the integrity of his treatment.

3. Political Fallout and “Secret” Transfer Allegations

The medical episode has triggered a fresh wave of political instability. PTI leaders and Khan’s family, including his sister Noreen Niazi, have condemned what they call a “secret transfer under the cover of night.” They allege that the family and legal team were kept entirely in the dark while the former PM was moved to and from the hospital. In a show of protest, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi staged a sit-in outside Adiala Jail after being denied a meeting with Khan. On Friday, January 30, the CM approached the Supreme Court, requesting the Chief Justice to intervene and facilitate a meeting between the incarcerated leader and his trusted personal physicians. The party warns that the “mysterious” circumstances of the surgery have created deep anxiety among supporters nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When did Imran Khan undergo the surgery?
The medical procedure was performed on the night of Saturday, January 24, 2026. However, the federal government only officially confirmed the news on Thursday, January 29.

2. What was the reason for the medical procedure?
According to the government, it was a “minor 20-minute procedure” for an eye ailment. However, PTI reports suggest that Khan was diagnosed with Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) in his right eye, a condition that causes a blockage in the retinal vein.

3. Is Imran Khan still in the hospital?
No. After the procedure at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), he was transferred back to Adiala Jail early Sunday morning (January 25).

4. Why is PTI protesting the medical treatment?
PTI and Khan’s family allege that the transfer was kept “secret” and conducted without informing his legal team or family. They are demanding that he be examined by his personal physicians from Shaukat Khanum Hospital to ensure proper care.

5. What is the current status of his health?
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar states that Imran Khan is “absolutely healthy” and his vitals are stable. Conversely, PTI leaders warn that without specialized follow-up care, there is a high risk of permanent vision loss.