Former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has expressed deep sorrow over the reported deterioration of the PTI founder’s eyesight, saying he could do nothing but pray for his recovery.
Speaking informally to journalists during his appearance in an anti-terrorism court for interim bail on Friday, Qureshi also raised concerns about prisoners’ rights and medical facilities in jail.
Qureshi said he was deeply saddened to hear about the PTI founder’s eye condition.
“I can do nothing except pray,” he remarked, adding that it was painful to see the family in distress.
Inside the courtroom, he met the PTI founder’s sister Uzma Khan and expressed regret over the situation. Uzma Khan briefed him about her brother’s health, and Qureshi prayed for his recovery.
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He also said he felt very sad seeing Aleema Khan, the PTI founder’s sister, in tears.
Prisoners have rights
The senior PTI leader emphasized that prisoners also have rights that must be respected.
“This is the responsibility of the jail administration,” he said, adding that if someone were to lose their eyesight in Adiala Jail, the jail administration and the Punjab government would be responsible.
He cited examples of other party leaders, including Mian Mahmoodur Rashid, who had to visit a hospital for a medical check-up but was allegedly not provided police security by the jail administration.
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He further said that Dr. Yasmin Rashid’s treatment could not proceed due to a lack of security arrangements.
Medical access and personal health
Qureshi revealed that he himself is undergoing treatment at the Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute (PKLI). He said he may be able to avoid surgery but would otherwise have to undergo another operation.
Due to insufficient police security, he claimed that prisoners are not being transported to PKLI Hospital for medical check-ups.
During his conversation, Qureshi also commented on broader policy matters. He said people were earlier encouraged to invest their savings in solar power installations, but now even the prime minister appears helpless over the policy that has been formulated.
Qureshi said he wants to see peace in the country and does not wish for confusion or unrest. He stated that India has a hand in the terrorism taking place in Balochistan and expressed agreement with the government’s position on the matter.
