ISLAMABAD: Pakistan concluded a constructive dialogue with the United Nations Committee Against Torture, the Law Ministry said this week, reaffirming its commitment to eradicating torture and highlighting significant legal and institutional reforms.
The Pakistani delegation, led by Aqeel Malik, presented comprehensive progress in strengthening safeguards against custodial abuse and aligning national frameworks with international obligations under the Convention against Torture.
During the review, Pakistan underscored that it “reaffirmed its unequivocal commitment to the absolute prohibition of torture under international law,” while detailing legislative, institutional and procedural advancements.
A key development highlighted was the Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention and Punishment) Act, 2022.
The delegation stated that the law “establishes, for the first time, a comprehensive definition of torture in domestic law,” criminalizes acts by public officials, introduces strict penalties, and ensures that “any evidence obtained through torture” is inadmissible.
It also provides victims with “access to legal remedies, compensation and judicial recourse.”
Pakistan further informed the Committee of the establishment of an independent investigative mechanism within the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), mandated to conduct impartial inquiries into allegations of torture, including on a suo motu basis.
Specialized units comprising forensic experts, medico-legal professionals and prosecutors have been created to “enhance investigative capacity and procedural integrity.”
Highlighting strengthened oversight, the delegation pointed to regular judicial inspections, administrative monitoring and expanded powers of the National Commission for Human Rights to conduct unannounced visits to places of detention.
Strengthened complaint redress systems were also emphasized, with “reported resolution rates exceeding 90% in several jurisdictions.”
The delegation also outlined improvements in detention conditions, including infrastructure upgrades, measures to reduce overcrowding and protections for vulnerable groups.
“Women and juvenile detainees are housed separately, with increased focus on rehabilitation and reintegration,” it noted, alongside targeted measures for persons with disabilities.
Advancements in healthcare services within detention facilities were also shared, including routine medical examinations, improved referral systems and integration with public health programmes, with continued efforts to align medico-legal practices with international standards.
Pakistan emphasized its transition towards “modern, non-coercive investigative practices,” including increased reliance on forensic science and digital evidence.
Training programmes across law enforcement, prosecution and prison administration are being aligned with international standards such as the Nelson Mandela Rules, Tokyo Rules and Minnesota Principles.
While highlighting progress, Pakistan acknowledged “prison overcrowding, resource constraints, and uneven institutional capacity,” noting that reforms are being implemented within a complex environment shaped by security challenges, including terrorism, as well as climate-related pressures.
The Committee appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to address custodial torture and improve prison conditions, while identifying areas for further strengthening.
In its concluding remarks, Pakistan “expressed appreciation for the constructive engagement with the Committee” and reaffirmed its commitment to continued cooperation.
The delegation stated it would submit written responses and “carefully consider the forthcoming concluding observations as a roadmap for further reforms.”
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