Ravi Shastri Condemns ‘Inhumane’ Treatment of Imran Khan, Calls for Better Care for Former Pakistan Captain

Mumbai: In a powerful statement resonating across the cricketing world, former Indian captain and head coach Ravi Shastri has voiced his dismay over the reported 'inhumane' treatment of Pakistan's legendary cricketer and former Prime Minister, Imran Khan. Speaking to Republic World, Shastri criticised the current conditions of Khan's imprisonment, calling for better care for the 1992 World Cup-winning captain. Emotional Javed Miandad Breaks Down Defending Imran Khan in Viral Interview.

Ravi Shastri Condemns ‘Inhumane’ Treatment of Imran Khan

"I'm not a politician. But just to see the way he's being treated today is shocking. You know, no one treats a human being like that. On humanitarian grounds, I don't think he deserves what he's getting," Shastri stated, on October 5, 2026. His comments come amid growing international concern over the 74-year-old Khan's health and well-being in Adiala Jail, Rawalpindi.

Concerns Over Khan's Health and Imprisonment

Imran Khan has been incarcerated at Adiala Jail since August 2023, following convictions in various cases, including the Toshakhana and Al-Qadir Trust cases. While some convictions have been overturned or suspended, new charges have kept him in custody.

Recent reports have highlighted a significant deterioration in Khan's health. His lawyers stated in February 2026 that he had suffered an 85% vision loss in his right eye due to central retinal vein occlusion, attributing it to delayed medical attention since October 2025. PTI officials even claimed in February 2026 that he had only 15% eyesight left in his right eye.

Timeline of Health Concerns and Medical Attention:

• October 2025: Symptoms of central retinal vein occlusion reportedly begin.
• January 2026: Khan undergoes an eye procedure at a government hospital.
• February 2026: Lawyers report 85% vision loss in his right eye; PTI states only 15% eyesight remaining.
• August 2026: Following a Supreme Court order for transfer to Shifa International Hospital, Khan was instead taken to PIMS in Islamabad for medical checks, then returned to Adiala Jail.
• September 2026: Undergoes a medical assessment at PIMS for blood pressure, cholesterol, and eye issues, then returned to jail.

Pakistani authorities, however, have consistently denied allegations of mistreatment, affirming that Khan has access to amenities and that facilities comply with regulations for former officials. Following his hospital visits, the government stated that a team of qualified doctors declared him "medically fit."

Global Cricketing Community Responds

Shastri's condemnation adds to a growing chorus of international figures, particularly from the cricketing fraternity, calling for better treatment for Khan. "I think there'll be a lot of cricketers around the globe who will be echoing the same sentiments," Shastri noted. Previously, 21 former international captains reportedly wrote to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and seven former Australian cricketers also appealed to their government, urging intervention regarding Khan's welfare. Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev Among 21 Former International Cricket Captains Urge Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif for 'Humane Treatment' of Imran Khan.

Shastri fondly recalled Khan's immense contribution to cricket. "What he gave to the game was something special... just an outstanding leader. The ability to motivate youngsters and then take them through," he remarked, praising Khan's legendary captaincy that led a relatively young Pakistan side to World Cup glory in 1992. He concluded by hoping Khan would be treated better, acknowledging him as Pakistan's most recognised global face.

As concerns for Imran Khan's health and legal situation continue to mount, the international community, led by prominent voices like Ravi Shastri, is pressing for his humane treatment and appropriate medical care, emphasising that humanitarian considerations should transcend political divides.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 06, 2026 11:47 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).