Islamabad’s Red Zone was sealed on Friday as opposition leaders staged a sit-in outside Parliament over concerns regarding former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s health. Police prevented lawmakers from entering Parliament House, citing security protocols.
The protest was organized by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to highlight alleged negligence in treating Khan’s eye ailment while he remains in Adiala jail. Police contingents and barriers were deployed at major points, including Radio Pakistan Chowk, to restrict movement toward Shahrah-e-Dastoor and the Parliament complex.
Supreme Court-Ordered Report Sparks Protests
The fresh sit-in follows a report submitted by PTI counsel Salman Safdar to the Supreme Court. Safdar, appointed as amicus curiae, visited Adiala jail on February 11 to assess Khan’s medical condition. According to the report, the former premier has lost 85% vision in his right eye.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said he had “barely managed” to reach the Parliament House, adding that the sit-in has officially begun. He warned that nationwide demonstrations could follow if the protest was obstructed.
Peaceful Sit-In Demands Immediate Medical Attention
Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Mehmood Khan Achakzai and Senate Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas were authorized by Khan to lead the protest. Achakzai emphasized that the sit-in would remain peaceful while urging authorities to allow Khan’s personal physician and family to meet him.
“Our biggest demand is the PTI founder’s health,” Achakzai stated. He called for the former premier to be shifted to a hospital of his choice for urgent examination, warning that further inaction could escalate the protest.
The opposition also demanded that the hospital be declared a “sub-jail” to maintain security while ensuring Khan receives proper treatment.
Government Confirms Future Shift to Islamabad Jail
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that Khan would eventually be shifted to Islamabad jail once it is completed, expected within two months. The minister highlighted that the facility would include all necessary medical services and adhere to court directives, as Khan was convicted by the Islamabad High Court.
Authorities previously dismissed reports of his transfer, confirming that Khan had been receiving full medical care, security, and proper meals at Adiala jail.
Rising Tensions and Political Implications
The ongoing sit-in reflects growing political tensions over Khan’s treatment and prisoner rights. Opposition leaders criticized the government for repeated mistakes, calling the protest inevitable due to alleged negligence.
With security forces tightly controlling access to the Parliament and Red Zone, the situation remains tense but contained, as demonstrators demand immediate medical attention for the jailed former premier.
