Pakistan : Why Did Rumors of Imran Khan’s Death Spread? Three Major Theories Fuel Speculation

November 26, 2025 10:37 PM

Why Did Rumors of Imran Khan’s Death Spread? Three Major Theories Fuel Speculation

Rumors surrounding the alleged assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan have triggered a storm across social media. Khan, who has been imprisoned since May 6, 2023, is reported by online sources to have died under mysterious circumstances inside prison, or to have been killed. Since then, social media has been flooded with unverifiable claims about his death.

Family Raises Alarm, Protests Outside Jail

Supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Khan’s three sisters recently protested outside Rawalpindi’s Adiala Court after being denied permission to meet him. Reports even emerged of attacks on his sisters during the demonstration.

The family insists that if Imran Khan is alive and safe inside prison, they should be allowed to meet him. They claim they have been barred from seeing him for three weeks, despite earlier court approval.

Rumors Spread Through Social Media: Three Key Theories

Several theories about Imran Khan’s alleged death or assassination have circulated online:

1. Poisoned in Adiala Jail

The most widespread theory suggests Khan was poisoned while in custody at Adiala Jail.
However, there has been no official confirmation, and the Pakistani government has dismissed these claims as baseless rumors.

2. Died Due to Serious Illness

Another theory indicates Khan may have died from undisclosed medical complications.
Reports claim his family has no information about his health or whereabouts, fueling further speculation about a possible transfer to another prison.

3. Assassinated on Orders of the Military

A more alarming theory circulating online alleges that Khan was killed on the instructions of Army Chief Asim Munir and Pakistan’s intelligence agency, ISI.
These claims, too, remain unverified.

Medical Concerns Highlighted in Reports

According to a report by The Telegraph, Khan suffers from vertigo, tinnitus, and declining hearing in one ear. He is reportedly receiving treatment, but his legal team claims they are no longer being allowed regular access to him—access they previously received every 15 days.

Family Claims Complete Lack of Information

Imran Khan’s family says they have received no updates about his health or current location. The lack of transparency has allowed rumors to spread rapidly across news outlets and social media.