Geneva, Dec 16 (NationPress) The United Nations Special Rapporteur has urged the Pakistani government to take urgent and decisive measures regarding the "inhumane and undignified" detention conditions faced by the former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Imran Khan. The Rapporteur cautioned that the current conditions could amount to torture and other forms of inhuman or degrading treatment.

Since his imprisonment in August 2023, Khan has been dealing with multiple charges, including corruption and terrorism, following his ousting through a no-confidence vote by the opposition in April 2022.

UN Special Rapporteur on torture, Alice Jill Edwards, stated, "I call on Pakistani authorities to ensure that Khan's conditions of detention fully comply with international norms and standards."

Since his transfer to Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi on September 26, 2023, reports indicate that Khan has been subjected to excessive periods of solitary confinement, spending 23 hours a day in his cell with severely limited access to the outside world. His cell is under constant camera surveillance, according to the reports.

Edwards emphasized that international human rights law prohibits prolonged or indefinite solitary confinement, especially when it extends beyond 15 days, as it can be deemed a form of psychological torture.

"Khan's solitary confinement should be lifted immediately. Not only is it an illegal measure, but extended isolation can also have detrimental effects on his physical and mental health," she asserted.

She noted that Khan has been deprived of outdoor exercise and interaction with fellow detainees, and he is unable to engage in communal prayers. Additionally, visits from lawyers, family members, and other authorized individuals are often interrupted or terminated prematurely.

According to the UN expert, Khan is held in a cramped cell that lacks natural light and proper ventilation, with temperatures reportedly becoming extreme in both summer and winter. The inadequate air circulation has resulted in foul odors and insect infestations, causing him to experience nausea, vomiting, and significant weight loss.

“Anyone deprived of liberty must be treated with humanity and dignity. Detention conditions should reflect the individual’s age and health status, including proper sleeping arrangements, climate protection, adequate space, lighting, heating, and ventilation,” Edwards stated.

She also added, “Khan has reportedly been denied sufficient medical care. I urge the authorities to permit a visit from his personal doctors.”