PTI stages nationwide agitation alleging delayed medical care
February 15, 2026: Pakistan witnessed escalating unrest after health concerns surrounding former Prime Minister Imran Khan triggered indefinite protests by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Demonstrations were reported across Islamabad, Karachi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with party workers blocking highways, burning tyres and staging sit-ins demanding that Khan be shifted from jail to a hospital for urgent treatment. Protesters also targeted the government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir, alleging negligence in providing adequate medical care.
According to official statements, authorities decided to move Khan for specialist supervision after consultations and court directions. A medical team, including retina specialists from Al Shifa Eye Hospital, was reportedly formed to assess his condition. Sources claimed Khan’s health issues began months earlier at Adiala Jail, where he was allegedly treated for high blood pressure before being diagnosed with Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO), a serious eye condition.
Medical intervention was later carried out at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, where he received anti-VEGF treatment. However, PTI leaders, including lawyer Salman Safdar, alleged that Khan has lost significant vision in his right eye and continues to face complications. While the government maintains that treatment is being provided in line with court orders, the episode has deepened political tensions, with PTI accusing authorities of withholding medical information.