Web Desk: Government will follow a Supreme Court directive concerning the medical treatment of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, Federal Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said, adding that authorities could move him to a private hospital if treatment at a government facility is not possible.
Chaudhry said the government would comply with the court’s instructions while assessing Khan’s treatment needs under existing laws and regulations.
“If his treatment cannot be provided at a government hospital under the applicable rules, he could be transferred to Shifa Hospital,” the minister said, according to remarks reported in local media.
The minister also said the government could consider sending Khan abroad for medical treatment if the circumstances and applicable rules warranted such a decision.
Chaudhry referred to the case of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who was transferred to government hospitals during his imprisonment before the government later allowed him to travel overseas for treatment.
He said Khan’s case would similarly be handled in accordance with the law and the court’s directions.
Chaudhry said the government’s review petition before the Supreme Court was aimed at seeking clarification of the ruling rather than refusing to implement it.
He stressed that the government remained responsible for ensuring that Khan received treatment in line with the court’s order.
The minister added that if a government hospital could not provide the required treatment under prevailing regulations, authorities could consider Shifa Hospital or, if necessary, treatment abroad.
The remarks come amid continuing legal and political debate over Khan’s medical care while he remains in custody. Any decision on a transfer or overseas treatment would depend on the applicable legal framework and the relevant authorities.
Read more: Supreme Court Returns Govt’s Review Petition Against Imran Khan’s Shifa Hospital Transfer
