Addressing growing concerns regarding the deteriorating health of imprisoned Imran Khan, a three-member bench of the Pakistan Supreme Court has issued a significant directive ordering his prompt medical transfer. Recognizing fundamental human rights and healthcare requirements, the apex court instructed authorities to move him immediately to Shifa International Hospital located in Islamabad. Following this landmark ruling, Justice Shahid Waheed, who headed the judicial panel, has drawn widespread attention. Notably, the senior judge who had recused himself from a high-profile disqualification petition involving Imran Khan seven years ago has now granted him major medical relief.
Hospital Transfer Orders and Visitation Rights
The three-member panel chaired by Justice Shahid Waheed imposed a strict 48-hour timeline for administration officials to execute the transfer of Imran Khan to Shifa International Hospital. Emphasizing the constitutional duty to safeguard prisoner health, safety, and basic fundamental rights, the bench outlined comprehensive arrangements for his ongoing care. The court mandated the creation of a specialized medical board comprising expert doctors, while permitting the inclusion of Imran Khan's personal physician. Furthermore, the order allows weekly in-person visits from family members alongside regular telephonic contact with his sons throughout the duration of his hospital stay. The political organization PTI publicly welcomed the judicial directive.
Judicial Background of Justice Shahid Waheed
Justice Shahid Waheed is a distinguished senior judge serving on the Pakistan Supreme Court bench. Prior to his elevation to the highest court of the land, he amassed extensive experience serving at the Lahore High Court. His legal career is largely defined by expertise in civil jurisprudence, service regulations, and complex constitutional questions. He initially assumed office as a judge of the Lahore High Court on 27 March 2012. Recognizing his judicial record, he was subsequently elevated to the Pakistan Supreme Court on 11 November 2022.
The 2019 Disqualification Petition and Recusal
Back in 2019, while presiding as a judge at the Lahore High Court, Justice Shahid Waheed encountered a petition concerning Imran Khan. The legal filing sought the disqualification of Imran Khan on grounds that he had allegedly concealed information regarding his alleged daughter, Tyrian White, in his 2018 election nomination documents. During those proceedings, Justice Waheed opted to recuse himself from hearing the matter, citing judicial propriety. He subsequently referred the case files back to the Chief Justice for the constitution of an alternative bench. Seven years later, leading a Supreme Court panel, his latest ruling has provided critical relief regarding Imran Khan's healthcare.
