LAHORE: Dr. Yasmin Rashid, a senior leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has been transferred to Shaukat Khanum Memorial Hospital in Lahore following a deterioration in her health.
Rashid, who is on judicial remand at Kot Lakhpat Jail, had previously been denied timely medical care despite repeated court orders mandating her access to proper healthcare. Her lawyer, Advocate Rana Mudassar, criticized the authorities for failing to provide necessary medical attention, which he claims has worsened her condition. Mudassar indicated that Rashid’s situation would become clearer after she undergoes cancer-related tests.
At Shaukat Khanum Memorial Hospital, sources revealed that Rashid, a former Punjab health minister, has been admitted for specific medical tests. The 72-year-old leader is experiencing breathing difficulties, and further examinations will be conducted at a government hospital.
This incident marks the second time this year that Rashid has faced a severe health crisis. In May, Dr. Yasmin Rashid was transferred to Lahore’s Services Hospital after collapsing.
Rashid has been incarcerated for over a year, facing multiple charges connected to the nationwide protests and riots on May 9, 2023, which followed the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan. Initially detained under the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance on May 12, Rashid was subsequently re-arrested for her alleged involvement in the unrest. Many PTI leaders, including Khan, have been imprisoned for nearly a year, with charges primarily related to the May 9 protests that resulted in attacks on state installations, including the Lahore Corps Commander House.
The situation highlights ongoing concerns about the treatment of political prisoners in Pakistan, especially regarding access to medical care.
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