Pakistani-American doctor Aasim Sehbai faces online abuse for supporting Imran Khan, despite his selfless work for Pakistanis. Younas Panwar’s viral post urges tolerance over toxic political hate.
Lahore — In an emotionally charged post now gaining traction across social media, Pakistani expatriate and writer Younas Panwar has expressed deep regret over the backlash faced by his close friend, Dr. Aasim Sehbai, a well-respected Pakistani-American oncologist serving underprivileged patients in the United States, all because of his admiration for Imran Khan.
In a Facebook status that has since garnered over 4,000 reactions, Panwar reflected on the disheartening state of political discourse, where even non-political humanitarian efforts are ridiculed if associated with certain political figures.
“Yesterday, I merely highlighted Dr. Aasim’s human compassion — how he treats Pakistanis in America for free, helps young doctors get U.S. clinical rotations, and opens his home to them — but just because I mentioned his admiration for Imran Khan, I was flooded with vile, personal attacks,” wrote Panwar.
While clarifying that his post neither praised any political party nor criticized any leader, Panwar noted the shocking vitriol that ensued.
“People, in their hatred for Imran Khan, forgot their own worth and tried to lecture a man who ranks among top physicians in his U.S. state,” he lamented.
Dr. Aasim, known for offering free cancer treatments to Pakistani patients, helping new doctors with visa sponsorships, accommodation, and mentorship without ever demanding a rupee in return, was described as a silent benefactor of Pakistan’s medical future.
Panwar’s impassioned post concluded with a call for tolerance and respect:
“If Aasim’s love for Imran is a crime, then punish me. But don’t insult someone who quietly uplifts hundreds of Pakistanis behind the scenes.”
