ISLAMABAD: A broad coalition of international scholars, artists, elected officials, jurists, journalists, faith leaders, and human-rights advocates has issued a humanitarian appeal expressing deep concern over the reported medical condition of former prime minister Imran Khan while in custody.
In a letter signed by more than 40 leading public intellectuals, academics, and activists worldwide, the coalition has called for his release and urgent access to his family members and personal physicians.
The signatories cited credible reports indicating serious deterioration in his health, including significant ocular damage allegedly linked to delays in medical treatment during detention. They emphasized the need for immediate independent specialist medical care and full transparency regarding his medical records and condition.
Humanitarian, Not Political
The statement underlines that the appeal is strictly humanitarian in nature and is not intended to influence political outcomes. It stresses that international legal norms and basic human-rights principles require that all detainees—regardless of political affiliation or legal status—be treated with dignity, afforded due process, and provided adequate medical care.
The coalition includes internationally recognized figures from Europe, North America, Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, representing a diverse range of disciplines and civil society organizations.
Key Demands
The appeal calls for:
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Immediate access to independent specialist medical care
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Full disclosure of medical findings and reports
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Humane detention conditions in line with Pakistani law
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Compliance with international human-rights standards
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Respect for due process and legal safeguards
Organizers also revealed that preparations are underway to establish an international humanitarian delegation. This delegation would seek meetings with relevant Pakistani authorities to encourage medical transparency and ensure adherence to established human-rights standards.
Supporting Organizations
The initiative is backed by:
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Community Alliance for Peace & Justice
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Coalition to Change US Policy on Pakistan
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Center for the Study of Islam & Decolonization
Organizers stressed that protecting the fundamental rights of detainees is a universal humanitarian responsibility and that access to medical care in custody should never become a matter of political contention.
