Imran Khan: Rumours about the former Pakistani Prime Minister’s death began circulating on social media late Wednesday and quickly gripped Rawalpindi with unease. What started as a handful of posts soon snowballed into a flood of messages, forward chains, and frantic phone calls. Within hours, Adiala Jail , where the ex-PM Imran Khan is currently lodged , became the centre of public attention. Small groups started gathering near the complex, and as word kept spreading, the crowd grew bigger, demanding clarity on his condition and direct access for legal and party representatives. Local observers describe the atmosphere as tense and emotionally charged, calling it one of the most sensitive evenings Pakistan has seen in recent months.
How the Rumour Caught Fire
The initial wave of speculation appeared to come from unverified social media accounts claiming that the former PM had collapsed in his cell and was receiving emergency medical care , or worse, that he had already passed away. No official source verified any of it, yet the rumours travelled faster than the authorities could react.
As daylight faded, people began walking towards Adiala Jail , some to protest, others out of pure concern. Police initially attempted to keep the situation calm, but later deployed additional security as the crowd continued to swell.
Government Denies, Public Still Unsure
The government issued a brief statement stating that the ex-PM had undergone a routine check-up and was stable. But the absence of photographs, medical reports or confirmation from lawyers only raised more questions. Supporters argued that a simple denial was not enough , they wanted someone credible to meet him in person. Several opposition figures also began demanding transparency and permission for legal counsel to access the detainee without delay.
Security on Alert
By late evening, police presence around Rawalpindi had increased. Checkpoints were set up, and certain roads were partially blocked. Although there were no reports of violence, anxiety remained high. Authorities urged citizens not to rely on unverified sources and to wait for factual updates. Many felt only a verified video statement or public appearance would help bring down the temperature and restore calm after a night filled with questions , and very few answers.
Whether this moment turns into a deeper political crisis or passes as a temporary scare depends on what the authorities choose to reveal next , and how soon they do it.
