The Islamabad High Court (IHC) reserved its verdict on Thursday regarding a petition to transfer former Prime Minister Imran Khan to a private hospital, but ordered the immediate formation of a new medical board to oversee his treatment The petition specifically requested Khan's transfer to Shifa International Hospital
A division bench, including Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir and Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro, instructed the Islamabad Chief Commissioner, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, to constitute the board The court mandated the inclusion of two specific doctors: Dr. Arif and Dr. Nadeem Qureshi, a retina specialist from Shifa Eye Hospital Dr. Qureshi's inclusion is notable as he is also part of a medical board previously established on the orders of Pakistan's Supreme Court, indicating judicial oversight of Khan's health
In addition to forming the medical board, the IHC verdict contained further directives aimed at ensuring Khan's rights while in custody. The court ordered authorities to guarantee Khan's consistent access to his lawyers and family members It also specifically instructed Dr. Qureshi to remain in direct communication with Khan’s family regarding the progress and details of his medical treatment The hearing that preceded the verdict was marked by heated exchanges between the legal representatives for the defense and the state
Asad Baig