Overview
- UN Special Rapporteur Alice Jill Edwards said reported conditions at Adiala Jail risk Bushra Bibi’s physical and mental integrity and urged immediate corrective measures.
- The UN account describes a small, unhygienic, poorly ventilated cell with insect and rodent infestations, frequent power cuts, unclean water, and inedible food linked to significant weight loss and medical issues.
- Edwards reported periods of near-total isolation exceeding 22 hours a day, sometimes for more than ten days, without exercise, reading materials, legal counsel, family visits, or access to personal physicians.
- The rapporteur confirmed she has formally raised the case with Islamabad and pressed for access to lawyers, family contact, and meaningful human interaction in line with international standards.
- Punjab officials and the Adiala jail administration dispute the UN claims, telling the Islamabad High Court that Bushra Bibi has a separate room, twice-daily medical checks, visitor access, and basic amenities, while she serves a seven-year Al-Qadir sentence plus 17 years in Toshakhana-II.