New Delhi, March 26 -- Once celebrated as Pakistan's golden boy-the charismatic cricketer who led his nation to World Cup glory-Imran Khan today stands as a prisoner, reduced to a number: 804. His transformation from national icon to political detainee encapsulates not only his personal fall but also the deeper crisis within Pakistan's power structure.

Khan's political rise was built on populist momentum and a promise to dismantle corruption. Yet, upon assuming office, his government quickly settled into what many described as a "hybrid regime"-a familiar arrangement in Pakistan where civilian authority operates under the shadow of military dominance. While Khan projected reformist zeal, the military establishment retained control over s...