GENEVA — A United Nations human rights expert has urged the Pakistani government to take immediate action over what she described as “inhumane and undignified” detention conditions faced by former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan, warning that the treatment may amount to torture or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading punishment.
Imran Khan has been imprisoned since August 2023 and is facing multiple cases, including charges related to corruption and terrorism, following his removal from office through a no-confidence vote in April 2022.
“I call on Pakistani authorities to ensure that Khan’s conditions of detention fully comply with international norms and standards,” said Alice Jill Edwards, the UN Special Rapporteur on torture.
According to Edwards, since his transfer to Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi on September 26, 2023, Khan has allegedly been subjected to prolonged solitary confinement, spending up to 23 hours a day inside his cell with extremely limited contact with the outside world. She added that his cell is reportedly under constant camera surveillance.
The UN expert emphasized that prolonged or indefinite solitary confinement is prohibited under international human rights law and that isolation lasting longer than 15 days constitutes psychological torture.
“Khan’s solitary confinement should be lifted without delay. Not only is it an unlawful measure, extended isolation can bring about very harmful consequences for his physical and mental health,” she said.
Citing information received by her office, Edwards said Khan has reportedly been denied outdoor exercise and interaction with other detainees and has been unable to take part in communal prayers. She also noted that visits from lawyers, family members, and other court-authorized individuals are frequently interrupted or cut short.
The Special Rapporteur further stated that Khan is being held in a small cell lacking natural light and adequate ventilation, with extreme temperatures reported during both winter and summer months. Poor air circulation has allegedly led to foul odors and insect infestations, which she said have caused Khan to experience nausea, vomiting, and noticeable weight loss.
“Anyone deprived of liberty must be treated with humanity and dignity. Detention conditions must reflect the individual’s age and health situation, including appropriate sleeping arrangements, climatic protection, adequate space, lighting, heating, and ventilation,” Edwards said.
She added that Khan has reportedly been denied adequate medical care and called on Pakistani authorities to allow visits by his personal physicians. (Source: IANS)
