Islamabad High Court (IHC) has directed the Interior Ministry to conduct an inquiry into allegations of torture against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader Shahbaz Gill, saying that cannot be ignored.
Acting IHC Chief Justice Aamir Farooq has ordered the interior ministry for appointment of an inquiry officer under supervision of a retired judge of the high court. The court in its 21-page detailed order further stated that the inspector general of Islamabad police had denied claims of torture, however, the medical officer of Adiala jail had stated in jail record that PTI leader had multiple injuries and marks on his body when he arrived.
The order also said that a medical examination should have had been done as per rules pertaining to prisoners and the jail authorities were bound to report to the sessions judge and prosecution in-charge.
According to the detailed order, jail authorities had failed to report the torture to the sessions judge or advocate. It said that medical board was formed on August 13 and 15, but according to police, Gill had refused to undergo medical examination.
According to the written order, torturing the accused could not be permitted, and that the constitution and courts were guardians of rights of prisoners.
The court also adjourned hearing on Shahbaz Gill’s plea for expulsion of sedition charges indefinitely, weeks, directing lawyers to see a 2012 judgment of the Supreme Court.
Shahbaz Gill had moved the IHC for quashing of sedition case claiming that he was arrested to please the current government.
