The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to urgently address systemic gaps in the country's anti-torture framework, warning that significant loopholes continue to obstruct accountability and justice for victims. The appeal was made on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, as reported by The Express Tribune.
Widespread torture in detention centres
According to HRCP, torture and other forms of cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment remain widespread in detention centres across Pakistan. The commission acknowledged the enactment of the Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention and Punishment) Act, 2022, but argued that the legislation does not adequately recognise psychological and mental suffering as torture, leaving several abusive practices outside the scope of the law.
HRCP noted that acts such as death threats, intimidation, coercion, humiliation, mock executions, threats against family members and prolonged solitary confinement are not explicitly covered under the existing legal definition. This legal gap weakens protection for victims and allows serious forms of abuse to escape prosecution, the commission warned.
Investigation mechanism under scrutiny
HRCP also questioned the credibility of the current investigation mechanism. The commission stated that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has exclusive authority to investigate torture complaints despite many of its senior officials having policing backgrounds. This arrangement creates concerns over conflicts of interest and undermines confidence in impartial investigations, as cited by The Express Tribune.
Limited oversight of human rights body
The commission further expressed concern over the limited authority of the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR). Its oversight responsibilities remain poorly defined, making it difficult to ensure accountability. Additionally, the absence of a comprehensive monitoring and reporting system hinders assessment of the true extent of torture and ill-treatment in detention facilities, limiting access to reliable data for policymakers and international observers, according to The Express Tribune.
HRCP urged the government to amend the anti-torture law to include psychological torture and ensure independent investigations free from conflicts of interest. The commission also called for strengthening the NCHR's mandate and establishing a robust monitoring framework to prevent abuses and deliver justice to victims.
