The United Nations Special Rapporteur on torture, Alice Jill Edwards, on Tuesday urged the Government of Pakistan to take immediate and effective action in response to reports of inhumane and degrading detention conditions faced by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, warning that such conditions could amount to torture or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.
“I call on Pakistani authorities to ensure that Khan’s conditions of detention fully comply with international norms and standards,” Edwards said.
According to the Special Rapporteur, since his transfer to Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi on 26 September 2023, Imran Khan has reportedly been subjected to prolonged periods of solitary confinement, spending up to 23 hours a day alone in his cell with severely restricted access to the outside world. She noted that his cell is reportedly under constant camera surveillance.
Edwards emphasized that prolonged or indefinite solitary confinement is prohibited under international human rights law and that when such isolation exceeds 15 days, it constitutes a form of psychological torture.
“Khan’s solitary confinement should be lifted without delay,” she said. “Not only is it an unlawful measure, extended isolation can have serious and harmful consequences for his physical and mental health.”
Information received by the UN expert indicates that Khan is not allowed outdoor activity or interaction with other detainees and is prevented from participating in communal prayers. Visits by lawyers, family members, and other individuals authorized by the courts are reportedly frequently interrupted or terminated prematurely.
The former prime minister is said to be held in a small cell lacking natural light and adequate ventilation. Temperatures reportedly reach extreme levels during both winter and summer, while poor air circulation has resulted in foul odors and insect infestations. As a result, Khan has reportedly experienced nausea, vomiting, and significant weight loss.
“Anyone deprived of liberty must be treated with humanity and dignity,” Edwards stated. “Detention conditions must take into account the individual’s age and health, including appropriate sleeping arrangements, climatic protection, sufficient space, lighting, heating, and ventilation.”
Imran Khan, 72, has a documented history of serious health concerns, including a severe spinal injury sustained in a 2013 accident and gunshot wounds from an assassination attempt in 2022.
“Khan has reportedly been denied adequate medical care,” Edwards said, urging the Pakistani authorities to allow him to be examined by his personal physicians.
The Special Rapporteur confirmed that she has raised Imran Khan’s situation with the Government of Pakistan and will continue to closely monitor developments.
