HRCP concerned over Dr Asim’s health

LAHORE

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed grave concern over a report about deterioration of mental health of Dr Asim Hussain, a former federal minister, and his treatment in the custody of paramilitary forces in Karachi.

In a statement released to the media on Wednesday, the Commission said: “ Human Rights Commission of Pakistan is greatly alarmed by a recent report submitted to court about Dr Asim's psychiatric condition.

“The inescapable conclusion is that Dr Hussain’s mental state is the result of the manner he was treated in custody.

This is alarming at many levels; first and foremost because of Pakistan’s promise to abide by the provisions of the United Nations Convention against Torture (UNCAT).

Furthermore, if a person of Dr Hussain’s standing, who is a doctor, owns a hospital, and can afford effective legal representation, can break down in this way in custody, there is cause for serious concern for those less strong in the Rangers' custody.”