Former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa suffered a sudden medical emergency earlier this week, which led to a brief loss of consciousness and a fall resulting in head injuries. According to sources close to the family, the incident was not due to slipping or carelessness, but rather was caused by a cardiac issue known as a third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block—a serious condition affecting the heart’s electrical conduction system. This disruption temporarily prevented the heart from properly coordinating its beats, causing Gen Bajwa to faint.
The family emphasized that misinformation regarding the former army chief has circulated widely on social media and in mainstream media outlets, creating unnecessary concern among the public. They urged citizens to refrain from spreading rumors and to respect Gen Bajwa’s privacy and the sensitivity of his medical condition. Sources confirmed that General Bajwa was performing his routine evening walk and exercises on the evening of Monday, February 9, when he started feeling unwell. Despite initial discomfort, he continued his usual activities until the symptoms intensified, forcing him to seek the washroom, after which he vomited and suddenly fainted. The fall resulted in visible bleeding from his ears, prompting immediate medical intervention.
Within approximately 15 minutes of the incident, General Bajwa was transported to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH), where an emergency medical team assessed his condition and provided initial treatment. Doctors discovered that he had sustained three minor fractures in the skull, though fortunately, there was no evidence of blood clots in the brain—a complication that could have been life-threatening. The source confirmed that he was now conscious, alert, and able to recognize family members, providing reassurance about his current condition.
Medical specialists treating General Bajwa determined that the fainting episode was directly related to a third-degree AV block. This serious cardiac condition interferes with the heart’s electrical system, temporarily disrupting the transmission of signals from the atria to the ventricles. To stabilize him, doctors installed a temporary pacemaker to maintain a regular heartbeat while they evaluate the situation and plan for further treatment. A permanent pacemaker is expected to be placed at a later stage to ensure long-term correction of the heart’s electrical dysfunction. The medical team has emphasized that no surgical intervention is currently necessary, as the situation remains stable under careful monitoring.
The former COAS is being kept in a sedated state to support recovery and to allow his body to rest and heal. Doctors are continuously monitoring his vital signs and cardiac function, and they have expressed optimism that, with proper care, he will make a full recovery. The family, meanwhile, has requested the public and media to exercise patience and avoid conjecture while medical professionals focus on providing uninterrupted care.
Earlier, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) had issued a statement confirming that General Bajwa was admitted to CMH following the fall at his residence. The military’s media wing emphasized that he is under comprehensive medical supervision and receiving all necessary treatment. The statement helped clarify initial confusion in the media about the circumstances surrounding the incident, countering false claims about the severity of the event.
According to sources, General Bajwa’s condition initially appeared critical, given the presence of head injuries and visible bleeding, but further examinations revealed that the fractures were minor and did not pose immediate risk to brain function. The fainting incident, triggered by the AV block, was identified as the primary cause of the fall, and medical professionals focused on stabilizing his cardiac activity before addressing any other complications.
In the days leading up to the incident, General Bajwa had maintained a regular schedule of light exercise and outdoor walks, indicating that the fainting episode was entirely unexpected. Medical experts have noted that third-degree AV blocks can manifest suddenly, even in otherwise healthy individuals, and require immediate attention to prevent serious cardiac events. The temporary pacemaker installed at CMH is being used to regulate his heart rhythm while doctors prepare for the implantation of a permanent device, which will ensure long-term cardiac stability.
Family sources reiterated that the former army chief is responsive, alert, and interacting with his medical team and family members. They stressed that he remains under expert supervision and that his condition is steadily improving. The sedative measures are designed solely to facilitate healing and recovery, and medical professionals are confident in the positive prognosis.
The incident has drawn attention nationwide, as General Bajwa is widely respected for his tenure as COAS and his contributions to national security. However, officials and family members alike have cautioned against unnecessary speculation or dissemination of false information, emphasizing that only verified updates should be considered reliable. The public’s understanding and respect for the privacy of the family at this time are considered crucial to ensure that the medical team can focus entirely on treatment and recovery.
Sources indicated that the AV block is a serious condition, often linked to disruptions in the heart’s conduction system. The temporary pacemaker is serving its intended purpose, maintaining a safe heart rhythm and preventing any further episodes of fainting. Once the permanent pacemaker is installed, it is expected to provide long-term correction, allowing Gen Bajwa to resume normal activity under medical guidance.
Officials from CMH confirmed that the former COAS is receiving comprehensive care that includes cardiac monitoring, pain management, and rehabilitation for the minor skull fractures. Medical staff are conducting regular assessments to track progress, and no additional complications have been reported. This coordinated approach ensures that all aspects of his health are managed efficiently while providing reassurance to family, friends, and the public.
While the incident has understandably caused concern, the overall situation remains stable. General Bajwa is now in a secure environment with immediate access to advanced medical care. The family, military authorities, and medical professionals continue to emphasize that his condition is steadily improving, and they remain optimistic about a full recovery. They have urged the public to remain patient, avoid spreading unverified reports, and respect the sensitivity of his medical situation.
In summary, General Qamar Javed Bajwa experienced a sudden cardiac event caused by a third-degree AV block, which led to fainting and a minor head injury. He is now conscious, fully aware of his surroundings, and receiving comprehensive care at CMH. Doctors have implemented both temporary and long-term measures, including the installation of a temporary pacemaker, with a permanent pacemaker planned for the future. The former army chief’s health remains stable, and medical teams are monitoring him closely, ensuring that he recovers safely under professional supervision.
The family, ISPR, and medical authorities have all stressed the importance of ignoring false reports circulating in media and social platforms. They reaffirm that verified updates from official sources are the most reliable information regarding his condition, and they continue to appeal for privacy, understanding, and prayers for his speedy recovery.