UN urges Pakistan to improve Imran Khan’s prison conditions, warns of ‘torture-like’ treatment

UN urges Pakistan to improve Imran Khan’s prison conditions, warns of ‘torture-like’ treatment

A United Nations human rights expert has urged Pakistan to immediately improve the detention conditions of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, warning that his treatment in prison could amount to torture or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading punishment.

Alice Jill Edwards, the UN Special Rapporteur on torture, said in a statement on Friday that Khan, 72, has been held at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi since September 26, 2023, and faces multiple legal cases that his supporters claim are politically motivated, a charge denied by the government.

Edwards cited “credible information” that Khan has endured prolonged solitary confinement for up to 23 hours a day under constant camera surveillance, restricted access to outdoor activity, limited interaction with other prisoners, and interrupted visits from family and lawyers.

“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,” Edwards said, highlighting the lack of natural light, poor ventilation, extreme temperatures, foul odors, and insect infestations in Khan’s cell.

She also noted his medical history, including a spinal injury and previous gunshot wounds, and urged that his personal physicians be allowed to visit.

The UN expert stressed that “anyone deprived of liberty must be treated with humanity and dignity,” and detention conditions should consider age, health, adequate space, lighting, ventilation, and sleeping arrangements. Edwards has formally raised Khan’s case with the Pakistani government and said she will continue monitoring developments.

Amid growing concern, Khan’s ex-wife, Jemima Goldsmith, posted on X that her two sons have not been allowed to see or speak to him for 22 months. She called on Elon Musk to ensure her posts reach a wider audience to highlight his status as a political prisoner. Meanwhile, rumors regarding Khan’s health and alleged death in custody have circulated, prompting his son Kasim Khan to demand proof of his father’s well-being.

Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), continues to call for unhindered family visits and access to legal counsel, insisting that restrictions are politically motivated and enforced at the direction of military authorities, a claim the government denies.