Senate Ruckus Over Imran Khan’s Health After Resolution Rejected
Pakistan’s upper house of Parliament erupted in chaos on Friday. A resolution expressing concern over the health of incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan was rejected. The rejection came through a simple voice vote.
The resolution demanded that the former premier be shifted to a high-standard hospital. It called for comprehensive medical examination and treatment. It also sought regular access for his personal physicians and family.
PTI Senator Aon Abbas Buppi moved the resolution. However, the presiding officer, Shahadat Awan, rejected it. The opposition then demanded a formal vote count. That request was also denied.
Opposition lawmakers immediately gathered in front of the chairman’s podium. They chanted slogans against the government. They condemned what they called the inhumane treatment of a high-profile prisoner.
Government and Opposition Trade Accusations
The debate followed a concerning medical report. Barrister Salman Safdar had submitted a report to the Supreme Court a day earlier. It stated that Imran Khan now has only 15 percent vision in his right eye. This was due to delayed treatment.
Government adviser Rana Sanaullah rejected claims of delay. He stated that Imran first complained of an eye issue in early January. This contradicts the PTI’s claim of complaints over four months.
“Jail doctors examine him every second day as part of routine care,” Sanaullah asserted. He said separate medical boards have reviewed his condition 25 times. He noted no eye ailment was mentioned in a December 9 medical board.
Opposition leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas urged a humanitarian view. He proposed that opposition and government representatives visit Imran together. “Let people meet him, things will normalise,” he remarked.
Constitutional Arguments and Emotional Appeals
PTI Senator Ali Zafar delivered a strong constitutional argument. He cited Articles 9, 14, and 25 of the Constitution. These guarantee the right to life, dignity, and equality before the law.
“When the state detains an individual, it assumes full constitutional responsibility for his life and health,” Zafar stated. He called the treatment gross negligence and a rights violation.
He demanded immediate transfer to a fully equipped hospital. He also insisted on access for personal doctors and family. Independent monitoring of medical care must also be ensured.
JUI-F Senator Kamran Murtaza endorsed a joint visit. He warned that the former prime minister’s eyesight is under threat. He suggested options like parole, bail, or declaring Imran’s house a sub-jail.
PTI Senator Dost Muhammad made an emotional offer. He said he wanted to donate one of his eyes to the party founder. The gesture underscored the deep concern among opposition ranks.
The government maintains it has provided proper care. However, the opposition insists that constitutional obligations are being violated. The issue now remains a flashpoint between the two sides.
