ISLAMABAD: Islamabad High Court (IHC) hearing petition pertaining to torture against prisoners in Adiala Jail ordered to take action against IG Jail and Superintendent Adiala Jail besides setting up special court for human rights within a week. Case came up for hearing before single bench of IHC led by Chief Justice (CJ) Athar Minallah here.

Court remarked during hearing that Human Rights Commission (HRC) presented best report. Court appreciates it. By reading report it seems as if Adiala Jail is a detention centre. It seems after reading report that prisoners are being subjected to violence in jail.  

Presence of prisoners in jail beyond its capacity is itself violence. It is violation of human rights. Court ordered to establish complaint cell in Adiala Jail. It should be ensured that no action is taken against prisoners who provide information.  CJ IHC called PTI leader Asad Umar on rostrum who was present in court.  CJ IHC remarked court had sent its decision to your government in 2020. What reports have been presented in court are horrendous. Asad Umar told court” I get reports and talk to Punjab administration. Court remarked who should be held responsible for all this.  Asad Umar told court government should be held responsible. Court remarked whosoever comes in power he does not care for weak segments of society. You government is in place in province. Adiala Jail is detention centre. Colonial mindset prevails therein. 

Asad Umar told court I see this matter. Matter of 70 years old Azam Swati should also be seen.  Court remarked all are seen one by one. No one becomes voice of voiceless people. Last days I visited Adiala Jail. Do you know what prisoner said to me when I went there. He said when you return we will have to suffer it. Government priorities are not for common men. Court raised this matter on petition of a poor woman.

This woman had no money to hire lawyer. Her son was beaten up mercilessly as he was not having Rs 5,000. Visitors bring meal to jail. Jail staff eat half of meal.  Asad Umar told court legislative assembly framed best law regarding human rights but no one saw it. This law makes HRC powerful. Under this law human rights violations in armed forces can also be seen. Whatever case is sent by HRC its trial will take place in special court. Secretary human rights said we have no officers.  Court remarked if secretary human rights has no staff then officers be provided on deputation. Trial of officers who are found involved in violating human rights will be conducted in special courts of human rights. 

Published in The Daily National Courier, October, 25 2022

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