Post by : Rameen Ariff

Imran Khan’s detention has once again drawn international attention as a United Nations human rights expert warned Pakistan over the conditions in which the former Prime Minister is being held. The warning comes at a time when Pakistan is already facing deep political divisions following Khan’s removal from office in April 2022 and the continued crackdown on his political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf.

In a strong statement issued on Friday, the UN Special Rapporteur on torture, Alice Jill Edwards, urged Pakistani authorities to immediately improve Imran Khan’s detention conditions. She warned that the treatment described to her could amount to torture or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading punishment under international human rights law. The expert said she has formally raised the matter with the Government of Pakistan and will continue to closely monitor the situation.

Imran Khan, who is 72 years old, has been held at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi since September 26, 2023. He is facing multiple legal cases, which his supporters claim are politically motivated. The Pakistani government and military leadership have denied these allegations, maintaining that all legal proceedings are being carried out according to the law.

According to the UN expert, credible information suggests that Imran Khan has been kept in prolonged solitary confinement, spending up to 23 hours a day alone inside his prison cell. His movement and interaction with the outside world are reportedly highly restricted, and his cell is under constant camera surveillance. International human rights standards prohibit prolonged or indefinite solitary confinement, and isolation lasting more than 15 days may be considered psychological torture.

Edwards called for an immediate end to Khan’s solitary confinement, warning that extended isolation can cause serious physical and mental harm. She said Khan has reportedly been denied regular outdoor exercise, contact with other prisoners, and the ability to participate in communal prayers. Even court-approved visits by lawyers and family members are said to be frequently interrupted or cut short.

Serious concerns were also raised about the physical condition of Khan’s prison cell. The cell is described as small, poorly ventilated, and lacking natural light. Reports indicate extreme temperatures during both summer and winter, foul smells, and insect infestations. These conditions have allegedly caused nausea, vomiting, and significant weight loss.

The UN expert stressed that anyone deprived of liberty must be treated with humanity and dignity, especially considering age and medical history. Imran Khan has previously suffered a spinal injury in a 2013 accident and sustained gunshot wounds during a 2022 assassination attempt. Edwards said Khan has reportedly not received adequate medical care and urged Pakistani authorities to allow access to his personal doctors.

Imran Khan’s detention remains one of the most sensitive and polarising political issues in Pakistan today. Since his ouster as Prime Minister, tensions have remained high, with his supporters claiming political victimisation and the government insisting that the law is taking its course. The situation has intensified international scrutiny of Pakistan’s human rights record amid the ongoing political crisis.

Edwards confirmed that she has officially raised Imran Khan’s case with Pakistani authorities and will continue to follow developments closely as the political turmoil in the country shows no signs of easing.

#Global News