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PakistanPolitics – Kasim Khan, the son of former prime minister Imran Khan, has accused Pakistani authorities of intentionally delaying visa approvals for him and his brother, which he says is preventing them from visiting their father in prison. The allegation surfaced through a public statement in which Kasim described the situation as unjust and deeply distressing for the family.

Allegations of Visa Delays and Family Separation

According to Kasim, both he and his brother have been attempting to secure travel documents to Pakistan but claim that the application process has been stalled without explanation. He stated that their father has remained in solitary confinement for more than two years, expressing concern over what he described as declining health conditions during detention. Kasim argued that denying children access to visit a jailed parent could have significant humanitarian implications.

Kasim and his elder brother Suleiman currently live in London with their mother, Jemima Goldsmith. The family has remained vocal about Imran Khan’s legal and medical circumstances since his incarceration began.

Growing Attention on Prison Health Conditions

The issue has gained traction as reports about Khan’s medical condition continue to surface. Pakistani newspaper Dawn recently highlighted mounting questions regarding the former premier’s treatment and access to healthcare. These concerns have added pressure on the government to provide transparency about Khan’s well-being.

Government officials last week confirmed that Khan had been transferred to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences for evaluation. The confirmation came after local media outlets reported that he required medical attention. Authorities have not publicly disclosed detailed medical findings, which has further fueled speculation among supporters and political observers.

Political Party Raises Transparency Concerns

Leaders from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf criticized the handling of Khan’s medical transfer, alleging that it was conducted without notifying either family members or senior party officials. The party also expressed dissatisfaction with restrictions placed on Khan’s ability to consult doctors of his personal choosing, arguing that independent medical oversight is essential for ensuring prisoner welfare.

PTI representatives have maintained that such measures undermine trust in the fairness of Khan’s detention conditions. The party has repeatedly called for increased transparency and adherence to international standards governing the treatment of incarcerated individuals.

Opposition Figures Urge Government Intervention

The controversy has also drawn attention from opposition politicians. Mahmood Khan Achakzai, a senior opposition leader, recently wrote to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif requesting direct involvement in resolving the medical access issue. Achakzai urged the government to permit medical examinations conducted by physicians trusted by Khan and his family, emphasizing that such steps could help reduce political tensions and humanitarian concerns.

Political analysts note that the case continues to remain sensitive due to Khan’s popularity and the broader political landscape in Pakistan. Observers suggest that decisions related to his detention and family access could influence public perception and political stability.

International Appeals and Ongoing Visa Dispute

Kasim has also called on global human rights organisations and foreign governments to monitor the situation closely. He warned that delays in providing medical care or family visitation could have serious consequences if the health concerns prove significant. The appeal reflects growing international attention toward the case, particularly among groups focused on prisoner rights and due process.

The visa controversy follows earlier statements from Khan’s sons, who revealed in late 2025 that they had initiated travel plans to visit Pakistan early this year. Recent reports, however, indicate that their applications remain unresolved, intensifying public debate over family access rights and prisoner welfare standards.

While Pakistani authorities have not publicly responded to the latest visa-related allegations, the matter continues to attract both domestic and international scrutiny. The situation remains closely watched as stakeholders await further clarification regarding Khan’s health condition and the government’s next steps.