National Dialogue Committee Raises Alarm Over Imran Khan's Health, Demands Immediate Medical Intervention
The National Dialogue Committee (NDC) has voiced serious concerns regarding the deteriorating health condition of former Prime Minister and PTI founder Imran Khan. In a strongly worded statement, the committee highlighted the risks to his well-being and criticized the government's admission about his recent eye operation, calling for urgent action to safeguard his fundamental rights.
NDC Meeting in Islamabad: Key Participants and Demands
A crucial meeting of the NDC was convened in Islamabad, attended by prominent figures including Fawad Hussain Ch, Imran Ismael, Mahmood Maulvi, Barrister Mohammad Alib Saif, former Minister Mohammad Ali Durrani, former Mayor Karachi Waseem Akhter, and veteran politician Munir Ahmad Khan. The committee issued a joint statement outlining several critical demands:
- Immediate formation of an independent medical board to assess Imran Khan's health condition thoroughly.
- Arrangement of a meeting between Imran Khan and his personal physician, Dr. Faisal Sultan, to ensure he receives proper medical care.
- Facilitation of meetings with his family members and sons to alleviate mental anguish and provide transparency to the public.
The NDC emphasized that these steps are essential not only for Imran Khan's health but also to halt the ongoing international defamation of Pakistan concerning human, legal, and democratic rights.
Condemnation of Government's 'Undemocratic' Stance
In their statement, the NDC leaders strongly condemned the federal and Punjab governments' approach towards Imran Khan's treatment, labeling it as regrettable, undemocratic, and contrary to their political claims. They pointed out the hypocrisy of the ruling coalition, comprising the Muslim League (N) and the People's Party, which has historically preached against politicizing health issues. Yet, their actions against Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi, Dr. Yasmin Rashid, and other political prisoners based on political opposition starkly violate their own past statements and advice.
The NDC demanded that the government extend the same medical privileges to Imran Khan as were provided to prisoner Nawaz Sharif, including the formation of an independent medical board and access to his personal physician. They warned that if any harm befalls Imran Khan's health, the entire leadership of the ruling coalition would be held responsible, reserving the right to take legal action against them.
Right to Health: A Fundamental Legal Principle
The committee underscored that the right to health for any prisoner is an inalienable right under the law. Deliberately depriving a prisoner of legitimate medical treatment or endangering their health is tantamount to taking their life and constitutes a criminal act. The NDC urged the ruling coalition to cease politicizing the health of political opponents and adhere to legal and ethical standards.
Government's 'Criminal Concealment' and Conspiracy Allegations
NDC leaders expressed deep regret over the government's alleged criminal concealment of facts regarding the serious decline in Imran Khan's eyesight. They accused the federal and Punjab governments of perpetuating lies for several days, which they claim is a deliberate attempt to defame state institutions. This, according to the NDC, appears to be a well-thought-out conspiracy aimed at provoking PTI supporters against state institutions, an act they deem against national interest.
Criticism of Opposition Leader Mahmood Achakzai
The NDC also strongly condemned and expressed disappointment over opposition leader Mahmood Achakzai's statement that "the founder's health is not as bad as the propaganda suggests." They labeled this as clear proof that Achakzai is acting as the government's B-team, citing his continuous silence after becoming opposition leader as evidence of his alignment with the government rather than the opposition. The NDC asserted that Achakzai's role in this matter mirrors that of the government and its ministers, and vowed to continue exposing such attitudes from both sides.
Call to Action: Sit-In at Prime Minister's House
In a bold move, the NDC urged the PTI and opposition leadership to jointly stage a sit-in at the Prime Minister's House gate, escalating pressure on the government to address their demands. This call to action reflects the committee's determination to ensure justice and proper medical care for Imran Khan, while challenging what they perceive as systemic failures in upholding democratic principles.
The NDC's statements highlight a growing political tension in Pakistan, with health issues becoming a focal point in the ongoing struggle between the government and opposition forces. As the situation unfolds, the demand for transparency and adherence to legal rights remains paramount in the public discourse.
