On May 17, 2025, former Pakistani Foreign Minister and PTI leader Shah Mahmood Qureshi was transferred from Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore to the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) after experiencing heart pain, according to his lawyer, Advocate Rana Mudassar.
The incident occurred early Saturday morning following Fajr prayers, prompting a medical assessment by prison doctors. Rescue 1122 moved Qureshi to the PIC for further tests when his condition did not improve.
Qureshi, detained since August 2023, faces multiple charges related to the May 9, 2023, riots, including an indictment in July 2024 by a Lahore anti-terrorism court for allegedly attacking and burning Shadman police station. He was transferred from Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi to Kot Lakhpat that month due to logistical challenges in frequent transport, per court records.
Praying for the quick recovery of Shah Mahmood Qureshi. He remained strong and stood by Imran Khan without giving in. It’s easy to speak freely from outside, but spending two years in jail is truly difficult. pic.twitter.com/V7LDYbyM6A
— Ihtisham Ul Haq (@iihtishamm) May 17, 2025In November 2024, Qureshi and other PTI leaders were indicted in additional May 9 cases, to which he has pleaded not guilty.
Mudassar confirmed that Qureshi’s family has been informed of his health status. As of May 17, no further details on his condition were available, with tests ongoing at the PIC. PTI expressed concern for Qureshi, urging swift medical care, though these reflect public sentiment rather than verified updates.
Qureshi’s hospitalisation comes amid heightened scrutiny of PTI leaders, with the party facing legal and political challenges since the May 9 riots. His role as PTI vice-president and former foreign minister underscores the case’s prominence, as noted in the coverage of his indictments.
Qureshi’s health and legal proceedings remain under close watch, with his hospitalisation raising questions about his detention conditions and ongoing trials. Updates on his medical status are expected as tests conclude.
