Karachi, Senator Talha Mehmood of the Jamait Ulema-e-Islam Fazal (JUI-F) recently visited Dr. Aafia Siddiqui in FMC Carswell jail in the United States, where he observed her deteriorating health and increased mental pressure. During his visit, Mehmood appealed for the immediate release of Siddiqui, whom he referred to as the daughter of the nation.

According to Jamait Ulema-e-Islam Fazal, Senator Mehmood’s two-hour meeting with Dr. Siddiqui revealed significant distress compared to his previous visit in 2008. He reported that Dr. Siddiqui, who has been in prison for fifteen years, is in a more stressed and difficult condition now. Chaudhry Aftab, Consul General of Pakistan, was also present during the meeting.

Senator Mehmood highlighted several concerns regarding Dr. Siddiqui’s case, including legal irregularities and harsh imprisonment. He noted that the offense she was charged with did not occur in the US and her transfer to the US was illegal, lacking consular access. He emphasized the need for the Pakistani government to intensify efforts for her early release, suggesting the use of government-to-government contacts and highlighting the many lacunae in her case.

The senator also suggested that a medical board should examine Dr. Siddiqui given her worrisome condition. He expressed commitment to meeting with a legal team to explore avenues for her early release. This visit and subsequent call to action by Senator Mehmood underscore the ongoing concern and efforts for Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s situation.