Imran Khan’s sister, Uzma Khan, alleged on Saturday that Pakistan’s jailed former prime minister told her he had been repeatedly physically abused in prison. The allegation came after Khan was taken from Adiala Jail to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad for medical tests and returned to jail within hours. Uzma Khan, who was present during the examination, said he was physically well but had reported mistreatment in custody.

The Supreme Court had ordered Khan’s transfer to Shifa International Hospital on Friday night, but authorities took him to PIMS, citing security concerns. Doctors declared him medically fit after examinations by an ophthalmologist, a cardiologist and another doctor. Pakistan’s interior and law ministries and prison authorities did not comment on the abuse allegation.

Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party filed a contempt petition against the government, saying the court order was not followed and his personal doctor was excluded. Information Minister Ataullah Tarar defended the PIMS transfer. Supporters gathered on Islamabad streets after news of the hospital visit, while PTI leaders said preparations for a September 27 protest march had been strengthened.