Inside Imran Khan Cell: Salman Safdar Reports Jail Conditions

Barrister Salman Safdar, acting on judicial instructions, conducted a comprehensive visit to Adiala Jail to evaluate the living conditions and health status of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Arriving at the facility at precisely 2:00 PM, the legal representative was granted access to the PTI chairman at 2:35 PM in the presence of the Jail Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent. The meeting was intended to provide an objective overview of the environment in which the high-profile prisoner is being held, following multiple concerns raised by his legal team and family members regarding his well-being. According to the report submitted to the Supreme Court, first reported by BBC Urdu, the findings present a stark picture of medical neglect and physical hardship.

The Alarming Decline in Vision

The most critical aspect of the report centers on Imran Khan’s deteriorating eyesight. The former Prime Minister revealed that he began experiencing vision impairment approximately three months ago, despite having perfect vision as recently as October 2024. Khan stated that he repeatedly informed Jail Superintendent Sajid Baig about his blurred vision, yet no immediate medical action was taken by the authorities. As time progressed, he completely lost sight in his right eye. It was only after significant delay that a doctor from PIMS was summoned for an examination. Barrister Safdar noted that despite subsequent treatment and injections, Khan’s right eye currently functions at only 15 percent capacity. During the meeting, Khan appeared visibly distressed by this loss, with tears frequently welling up in his eyes, which he had to wipe away with tissues.

Daily Routine and Spiritual Discipline

Despite the physical challenges, Imran Khan maintains a highly disciplined daily schedule within the confines of his cell. His day begins with breakfast at 9:45 AM, consisting of a cup of coffee, porridge, and a few dates. From breakfast until 11:30 AM, he dedicates his time to studying the Holy Quran. This is followed by a rigorous physical workout using available equipment, which includes a stationary exercise bicycle, two 9kg dumbbells, and a bar. Following his exercise, he is permitted to bathe at 1:15 PM and is subsequently allowed a period of walking or sitting within his designated compound. Lunch is served between 3:30 PM and 4:00 PM, followed by another walking session at 5:00 PM. However, from 5:30 PM until 10:00 AM the next morning, he remains locked inside his small cell.

Dietary Habits and Nutritional Concerns

The report provides an intimate look at the dietary arrangements for the former premier. Imran Khan himself manages his weekly menu, the costs of which are covered by his family. His diet typically includes two days of chicken, two days of meat, two days of lentils, and two days of lighter meals such as chaat. He is provided with bottled Nestle water for drinking. For dinner, he consumes only fruit, milk, and dates. While the food quality is generally acceptable, Khan expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of refrigeration. Instead of a refrigerator, he has been provided with a cooling box, which he claims is ineffective during the intense summer heat. This lack of proper storage led to him suffering from food poisoning on two or three occasions during the warmer months.

Environmental Hardships and Lack of Specialized Care

At 73 years of age, Imran Khan has specific medical needs that remain unaddressed. He pointed out that he has not been granted a dental checkup in two years despite repeated requests. Furthermore, his personal physicians, Dr. Faisal Sultan and Dr. Asim Yusuf, have been denied access since his vision problems began. In their place, prison staff check his blood pressure and oxygen levels three times daily. The physical cell itself contains basic amenities: a bed, a chair, a table, a hanger, and a 32-inch television, which Safdar noted was non-functional during his visit. The summer months are particularly difficult due to extreme humidity, inadequate mosquito control, and a lack of effective cooling, which severely impacts his sleep and rest.

Isolation and Surveillance

The compound where Khan is held is surrounded by 12-foot walls topped with barbed wire, guarded 24/7 by a team of warders. While there are ten surveillance cameras monitoring the compound including one positioned near the shower area there are no cameras inside the cell itself. Khan raised serious concerns regarding his isolation, stating that he is being prevented from meeting his legal team, which hinders his ability to provide instructions on his various court cases. He also mentioned that he has only been allowed to speak with his sons in the UK twice during 2025, despite court orders. His primary request remains the provision of basic necessities for survival and regular access to his family and legal counsel.

Supreme Court Intervention

Upon reviewing the detailed report submitted by Barrister Salman Safdar, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has taken decisive action. The court has formally ordered the federal government to ensure that a team of specialist doctors conducts a thorough medical examination of Imran Khan’s eyes and overall health. This checkup must be completed before February 16. The court’s directive emphasizes the state’s responsibility to provide adequate healthcare to all prisoners, regardless of their political status, and addresses the specific recommendations made by Barrister Safdar regarding the former Prime Minister’s deteriorating health conditions.