A gripping political drama is unfolding in Islamabad, with a sit-in protest outside Parliament House capturing the nation's attention. The Tehreek-e-Tahaffuz-e-Ain Pakistan (TTAP) has taken a stand, demanding that former Prime Minister Imran Khan be admitted to Shifa International Hospital. This protest follows a report submitted to the Supreme Court of Pakistan, revealing that Imran Khan's right eye vision has deteriorated to a mere 15%.
The TTAP, led by Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai, is determined to keep the protest peaceful. In a statement, Achakzai emphasized the need for Imran Khan to meet with his personal physician and family, questioning why he cannot receive treatment at Al-Shifa Eye Trust, a renowned eye hospital.
"They are not asking for him to be sent abroad; they want him treated within the country," Achakzai said, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Security measures around Parliament House have been heightened, with police deploying a heavy contingent to prevent unauthorized access. The main entrance was closed, and armored vehicles were positioned nearby, creating a tense atmosphere.
Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar, a prominent figure, took to X to express his concerns. He highlighted the government's efforts to block all roads leading to Parliament, trapping MNAs and Senators inside. "This doesn't reflect strength; it's a sign of weakness!" he exclaimed.
Moeen Riaz Qureshi, the Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader, also reported that police had closed the main doors of the Parliament lounges as they approached Parliament House.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry addressed the concerns, stating that the matter should not be politicized. He assured that appropriate medical care was being provided, in line with medical advice. However, he added that Imran Khan's complaints of an eye problem had only surfaced recently, with no mention of any issues until mid-January.
"Imran Khan will undergo medical examinations wherever recommended by doctors. If needed, he will be sent to Al-Shifa Eye Trust Hospital," Chaudhry said, recalling the events of January when a doctor recommended an eye checkup at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences.
The PTI, through a post addressed to the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi, demanded formal written directions to ensure Imran Khan's examination and treatment by specialists at Shifa International Hospital. "This is not about politics or power; it's about Imran Khan's life!" the PTI emphasized.
Aleema Khan, a key figure, questioned the delay in receiving the written order from the Supreme Court. "Nearly 30 hours have passed since the jail visit report was presented, yet no orders for Imran Khan's transfer to Shifa International Hospital have been issued," she said.
The JUI-F chief also called for full medical facilities to be provided to Imran Khan in prison, emphasizing the need for humanitarian considerations. "He should be allowed to be examined by his preferred doctor. Politics should not turn into enmity; we must cooperate for our collective survival," the JUI-F chief stated.
The protest, which began on Friday, February 13, 2026, is a powerful display of the nation's concern for Imran Khan's health and well-being. With the situation evolving, the question remains: Will the government heed the calls for Imran Khan's medical treatment, or will this protest escalate further? The nation awaits the next chapter in this political saga.
