Live Stafford Smith, the American attorney representing Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, has revealed alarming details about her treatment in a Fort Worth, Texas jail. According to Smith, Dr. Siddiqui, a Pakistani neuroscientist, is continuously being sexually harassed, with a recent incident involving a security guard raping her as punishment just two weeks ago.
Dr. Aafia Siddiqui was indicted by a New York federal district court in September 2008 on charges of attempted murder and assault. These charges stem from an incident during an interview with US authorities in Ghazni, Afghanistan, charges which Dr. Siddiqui has consistently denied.
Smith’s statements have intensified calls for a thorough investigation into Dr. Siddiqui’s treatment and for her immediate protection. The revelations have sparked outrage and concern among human rights advocates and the Pakistani community, who have long campaigned for her release and repatriation.
The allegations of continuous sexual harassment and recent rape underline the severe and inhumane conditions Dr. Siddiqui is reportedly enduring. These claims have further galvanized support for her cause, with renewed demands for her rights to be respected and for her immediate safety to be ensured.
The Pakistani government and international human rights organizations are being urged to take swift action in response to these grave allegations. Ensuring the safety and dignity of prisoners is a fundamental human right, and the reported violations against Dr. Siddiqui necessitate urgent attention and intervention.
