Committee against Torture

Eighty-fourth session

Geneva, 13 April–8 May 2026

Consideration of reports submitted by States parties under article 19 of the Convention

Replies of Pakistan to the list of issues in relation to its second periodic report *

[Date received: 26 September 2025]

Replies to the list of issues (CAT/C/PAK/Q/2)

Articles 1 and 4

Reply to paragraphs 2 and 18

1.The Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention and Punishment) Act, 2022 criminalizes torture, custodial death and custodial rape by public officials. It bans the use of evidence obtained through torture. These crimes are non-bailable and non-compoundable. Investigations are carried out by the FIA under the oversight of the NCHR. The Act sets strict penalties, including imprisonment and fines payable to victims or their families. It holds officials accountable for committing torture and for failing to prevent it. Moreover, under the Qanun-e-Shahadat Order, 1984, confessions obtained through coercion are inadmissible in court, providing an additional safeguard against custodial torture.

2.All provincial Prison Departments have a zero-tolerance policy against torture and maltreatment of prisoners by staff or other inmates. To ensure lawful arrests and humane treatment, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) on arrest, custody and investigation are strictly enforced. These SOPs require immediate medical examination of detainees, timely family intimation and regular lockup inspections. Strict disciplinary and legal action is taken against officers found guilty of abuse or misconduct, including misbehaviour with prisoners’ relatives or friends. At the operational level, all police departments maintain Internal Accountability Bureaus and disciplinary units to investigate complaints of torture, custodial violence and abuse of authority. District-level complaint redressal cells, the Helpline 8787, Police Access Service, digital feedback platforms and the Central Monitoring and Complaint Cell provide accessible avenues for citizens to file complaints. Oversight is further strengthened through inspections by senior officers, judicial officers and Home Department representatives, while complaints are monitored through hotlines, digital systems and CCTV surveillance.

3.The NCHR has statutory authority under the NCHR Act, 2012 to conduct visits to any jail or detention facility. NCHR has a mandate to monitor prison conditions, investigate complaints of human rights violations, hold private interviews with inmates and make recommendations for reforms. Public Safety Commissions also conduct regular as well as surprise visits to prisons to assess conditions, protect prisoners’ rights and compile reports for the government. In addition, civil society organizations (CSOs) and the judiciary contribute to jail oversight, with CSOs monitoring conditions and advocating reforms, while judicial officers conduct inspections and entertain habeas corpus petitions. Parliamentary committees also exercise oversight through inquiries, prison reform reports and follow-up on implementation of recommendations.

4.Capacity-building remains a priority. Police training curricula include human rights and anti-torture modules, as well as gender-sensitive and child protection training. Training has been modernized to acquaint officials with the use of forensic tools, modern technologies and scientific investigation methods as per international standards. The Prosecution Department has been separated from the police to strengthen independent oversight of investigation processes.

5.Following the enactment of the Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention and Punishment) Act, 2022, the registration of cases and conviction ratio of officials involved in custodial torture, death and rape has shown an upward trend. Annual statistics on torture‑related cases against police and prison officials sent to courts and their outcomes for the period 2019–2025 reflect increased accountability and improved enforcement of anti‑torture safeguards. These criminal prosecutions are in addition to the internal accountability mechanisms such as suspension, dismissal from service and fines.

Year	No of Cases sent to Courts	No. of Convictions secured	No. of acquittals granted	No. of cases currently pending before the courts.
2019	19	6	4	9
2020	35	1	11	23
2021	34	8	7	9
2022	19	9	6	4
2023	33	18	2	13
2024	44	15	18	11
2025	11	0	3	8
Total	195	57	51	77

6.Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention and Punishment) Act, 2022 is operationalized in conformity with obligations under the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT). The Act criminalizes torture, prescribes penalties commensurate with the gravity of the offence and provides that no exceptional circumstances may be invoked as justification. Similarly, an order from a superior officer or public authority cannot be relied upon as a defence. Section 337-L of the PPC provides punishment for causing hurt not specifically categorized elsewhere in the Code to cover instances of severe mental pain and suffering inflicted unlawfully.

Definition of Torture and Mental Suffering

7.Courts have consistently interpreted the prohibition of torture broadly, encompassing both physical and psychological harm. Article 14(2) of the Constitution, which expressly prohibits torture for the purpose of extracting evidence, has been read to cover severe mental pain and suffering as well as physical abuse. As a common law country, decisions of the superior judiciary are binding on lower courts, thereby reinforcing the recognition of mental torture as equivalent to physical torture. This approach reflects Pakistan’s commitment to implementing the definition of torture holistically and in line with the Convention against Torture. For instance:

In Saifuddin Saif v. Federation of Pakistan (PLD 1977 Lahore 1174), the Lahore High Court held that mental abuse and psychological pressure are as much “torture” as physical brutality.

In Asfandyar Wali v. The State (PLD 1978 Peshawar 38), the Peshawar High Court ruled that confessions extracted under psychological coercion or physical abuse have no evidentiary value.

In Mst. Tayyeba Ambareen v. Shafqat Ali Kiyani (2023 SCMR 246), the Supreme Court explicitly recognized cruelty as encompassing both physical and mental torture, emphasizing humiliation and anguish as forms of abuse.

Jurisprudence under the Convention and the 2022 Act

8.Domestic jurisprudence continues to evolve in line with UNCAT standards and Pakistan’s constitutional framework. Landmark judgments include:

Sadaf Aziz v. Federation of Pakistan (2021 P Cr. LJ 205): Lahore High Court declared virginity testing unconstitutional, citing UNCAT Article 16.

Jumma Khan v. NAB (2023 P Cr. LJ 78): Balochistan High Court recognised mental torture as part of the prohibition under Article 14 of the Convention.

Khadim Hussain v. Federation (PLD 2020 Islamabad 268): Islamabad High Court directed systemic reforms of prison conditions, relying on constitutional and Convention safeguards.

Mst. Sarriya Bibi v. RPO Sheikhupura (2024 LHC 2550): Lahore High Court ordered transfer of torture cases to the FIA under the 2022 Act.

In Saifuddin Saif v. Federation of Pakistan (PLD 1977 Lahore 1174), the Lahore High Court held that mental abuse and psychological pressure are as much “torture” as physical brutality.

Amir Sajjad v. The State (2023 P Cr. LJ 1650): Police officials were convicted for custodial death, with emphasis on accountability under Article 14(2) of the Constitution.

Waqas Ahmad v. The State (2024 LHC 2550): Lahore High Court found police guilty of severe custodial torture, including sexual assault, noting gross abuse of authority, failure of safeguards and complicity of senior officers.

Government of Sindh v. Muhammad Sarwar (PLD 2023 Sindh 154): Sindh High Court awarded compensation of Rs. 5,000,000 for custodial death, finding police liable for torture, unlawful detention and failure to provide medical care.

Statute of Limitations

9.Neither the 2022 Act nor the Pakistan Penal Code prescribes a limitation period for torture prosecutions. Pakistan’s criminal law has not imposed statutory time-bars on serious offences, reflecting the principle that grave crimes against human dignity remain prosecutable indefinitely. The 2022 Act classifies torture by public officials as a punishable criminal offence and no defence has succeeded in challenging such charges as time-barred. The 2022 Act provides timeframes for investigation, trial and appeal to expedite the allegations of torture.

Training and Sensitization

10.Judicial academies at the federal and provincial levels have integrated modules on torture prevention and human rights protections into their curricula. Between 2019 and 2025:

The Ministry of Human Rights conducted specialized trainings in all provincial police departments and the FIA Headquarters on human rights, with a dedicated focus on the prohibition of torture and custodial safeguards under the 2022 Act. More than 400 senior police and FIA officials were given these trainings.

The Punjab Judicial Academy conducted multiple sensitization sessions on custodial torture for judges and legal officers in which more than 600 officials were trained.

Sindh held specialized training for judicial officers and legal professionals focusing on rights of women, vulnerable groups and custodial safeguards.

The KP Judicial Academy conducted dedicated webinars (25–29 March 2024) on the 2022 Act.

The Balochistan Judicial Academy trained approximately 180 judicial officers and 120 prosecutors on UNCAT, constitutional safeguards and custodial safeguards.

Article 2

Reply to paragraph 3

11.The Government of Pakistan has taken concrete measures to strengthen fundamental legal safeguards during arrest and detention. All detainees are entitled to prompt medical examination by an independent medical practitioner ensuring complete confidentiality. Detentions are promptly recorded in official registers maintained at each facility. With regards to legal aid, the enactment of the Legal Aid and Justice Authority Act, 2020 has institutionalized the provision of free legal aid for indigent individuals, thereby ensuring effective access to justice. Furthermore, in NCSW v. The Government of Pakistan (2019), the Supreme Court declared all informal forums such as jirgas and panchayats illegal under the Constitution and inconsistent with Pakistan’s international human rights obligations, with the effect that such parallel justice mechanisms no longer hold legal standing or operate officially in any part of the country. Furthermore, no prisoners detained in connection with the May 9th protests were subjected to torture or abuse. Due process of law was observed and all legal safeguards were ensured.

Punjab

Punjab Prison Medical Data (2019–2024)

Year	Applications Received	No of Services Provided to Prisoners within Prison Premises	Referred to Hospitals
2019	81 443	1 946 834	2 633
2020	92 450	1 783 117	2 828
2021	105 644	1 802 157	3 470
2022	112 053	2 315 663	3 532
2023	116 062	2 596 538	3 395
2024	93 914	2 682 169	3 512

12.Punjab has implemented structured safeguards for mentally ill prisoners in accordance with the Mental Health Ordinance 2001 and Rule 444 of the Pakistan Prison Rules 1978. As of 2025, a total of 48 mentally ill prisoners were under custody. Those diagnosed with severe illness are transferred to Punjab Institute of Mental Health (PIMH) following clinical assessments by prison psychologists. To further support mental health, 16 psychologists (BPS-17) and 11 junior psychologists (BPS-16) have been deployed in jails across Punjab. A dedicated medical board was constituted by the Government of Punjab under the Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education Department to evaluate mentally ill inmates, as per Supreme Court judgment PLD 2021 SC 488.

13.With regards to provision of legal aid, multiple channels have been established to ensure the provision of free legal aid to prisoners. Through coordination with the Punjab Bar Council and District Bar Associations, district-level legal aid committees have been formed to facilitate timely legal assistance. Field formations are actively directed to share lists of deserving inmates with the judiciary and relevant bar committees. As of 20 June 2025, a total of 327 prisoners have benefitted from pro-bono legal services under this framework.

Sindh

14.In Sindh, all prisoners undergo initial health screening upon admission followed by daily medical rounds. Medical services are available 24/7 across all prisons through deputed medical officers and prison medical officers. Separate medical wards exist in every jail for HIV, TB, drug addicts etc. to prevent spread of disease. Currently 36 medical officers and 27 prison medical officers serve across Sindh prisons.

Sindh Prison Medical Data (2019–2024)

Year	No of Services Provided to Prisoners within Prison Premises	Referred to Hospitals
2019	405 964	4 233
2020	564 204	5 291
2021	598 424	5 432
2022	682 661	6 623
2023	872 598	6 788
2024	774 718	7 177

15.With regards to legal aid, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD) has the mandate to protect all rights of persons with disabilities as mentioned in the Sindh Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2018. The Pakistan Legal Aid United Society (PLUS) is a partner NGO of DEPD receives annual grant/funding for managing legal support system/legal aid for the prisoners with Disabilities of the Province of Sindh. It provides legal assistance to the Department regarding the matters pertaining to the Persons with Disabilities. From FY 2023 to FY 2025, under the partnership between PLUS and the DEPD, a total of 197 legal cases of disabled prisoners including disabled prisoners were managed, with 119 representations provided and 222 legal advisories delivered. Over these two years, the program benefited 460 individuals while operating under a combined financial budget of PKR 30 million. Furthermore, legal aid to under-trial and indigent prisoners is facilitated through the Committee for the Welfare of Prisoners (CWP) under the Home Department. The Committee provides free legal assistance, surety for bail and representation in petty offences. Year-wise details of budget allocations and beneficiaries are maintained by the Committee for the Welfare of Prisoners (CWP). Moreover, all the prisons in Sindh have a total funding of PKR 90.9 million for free legal aid.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Prison Medical Data (2019–2024)

Description	Number
Applications Received for Medical Treatment	104 267
No of Services Provided to Prisoners within Prison Premises	1 767 551
No of Services Provided to Prisoners Outside Prison Premises	46 440

16.With regards to provision of legal aid in KP, 1688 individuals have received free legal aid under the Legal Aid and Justice Authority Act, 2020.

Balochistan

Balochistan Prison Medical Data (2019–2024)

Description	Number
Applications Received for Medical Treatment	26 480
No of Services Provided to Prisoners within Prison Premises	252 315
No of Services Provided to Prisoners Outside Prison Premises	9 230

Reply to paragraph 4

17.The Government of Pakistan reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the National Commission for Human Rights as a cornerstone of the nation’s human rights architecture, operating with full independence and impartiality in strict accordance with the Paris Principles. This dedication is highlighted by the NCHR’s recent accreditation as an A-status national human rights institution by the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) on May 19, 2024. Furthermore, the NCHR has also been elected to the Bureau of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) for Asia-Pacific for a four-year term.

18.NCHR is empowered with significant authority to carry out its mandate, which includes investigating allegations of human rights violations, whether through petitions filed by individuals or institutions, or through suo-moto actions initiated by the Commission itself. Additionally, NCHR plays a key role in reviewing existing and proposed legislation to ensure compliance with human rights principles. The NCHR also conducts research and provides policy advice on human rights issues, enabling the Government and other stakeholders to formulate informed and effective policies. Furthermore, NCHR engages in awareness-raising and advocacy initiatives. In addition to the foregoing, Section 5 of the Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention and Punishment) Act, 2022 provides NCHR with a strong mandate to supervise torture investigations conducted by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).

19.To enhance NCHR’s independence and impartiality, the Government of Pakistan has implemented several key measures, including the transparent appointment of a new Chairperson and members through a rigorous parliamentary process. Under Section 4 of the NCHR Act, the appointment process involves public consultation, scrutiny of candidates and the involvement of both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in forwarding nominations to a Parliamentary Committee. This committee, composed of members from both the Senate and the National Assembly, ensures a balanced and fair selection process. The appointment of the NCHR Chairperson and members is ultimately confirmed by the President of Pakistan, ensuring that only individuals of the highest integrity and commitment to human rights are selected to lead the Commission. The Commission is fully functional since November 2021.

20.The Government’s recognition of the NCHR’s crucial role is further demonstrated by the substantial increase in its budget. From FY 2021–22 to FY 2023–24, the NCHR’s budget was increased by more than 200 %, rising from Rs. 70.8 million to Rs. 161 million. NCHR’s budget was further increased to 183 million for FY 2024–25. NCHR budget has been further increased to 232.34 million for FY 2025–26. Additionally, the appointment of the NCHR Chairperson as the Principal Accounting Officer for budget and expenditure reinforces the Commission’s financial autonomy, ensuring that it can allocate resources in a manner that best serves its operational needs and objectives.

21.Since its establishment, NCHR received a total of 7,080 complaints, taken 1271 suo moto cases and conducted proactive investigations and advocacy on human rights violations. NCHR’s proactive initiatives like 173 jail visits, 28 fact-finding missions and publication of 50 special reports demonstrate its commitment to actively identifying and addressing human rights concerns.

22.NCHR investigated allegations of torture at Central Jail (Adiala), Rawalpindi at the behest of Chief Justice IHC on the basis of a complaint of custodial torture. Following multiple visits to the jail to investigate and meet with inmates, NCHR prepared an inquiry report for the Islamabad High Court. The Government has taken following actions as a result of NCHR’s investigation and inquiry report:

Legal action was taken against officials of the Adiala Jail: seven officials were removed from service; four officials were suspended for 90 days; and 38 officials were transferred out of Adiala Jail;

Complaint cell set up and Oversight Committee for Adiala Jail notified by NCHR to inquire into complaints of torture;

Notification of Human Rights Courts under Section 21 of the NCHR Act, 2012;

All Police Departments developed a training module on Custodial Torture & Custodial Death to be made part of the syllabus of all promotional and mandatory courses; and

NCHR prepared a manual for police and medico-legal examiners on the best practices of investigating torture complaints based on domestic law and international standards.

Reply to paragraph 5

23.The Government has taken significant legislative, institutional and administrative measures to address violence against women and girls, including domestic violence, harassment, marital rape and so-called “honour killings.” The landmark Criminal Law (Amendment) (Offences in the Name or on Pretext of Honour) Act, 2016, strengthened the legal framework by categorizing honour-related crimes as fasad-fil-arz, thus preventing waiver or compounding by relatives and mandating stringent penalties including life imprisonment even in cases of pardon.

24.To ensure swift and sensitive adjudication in cases of violence against women and girls, 95 specialized Courts have been established nationwide with 116 Judicial Officers, hearing cases relating to, inter alia, forced/child marriages and forced conversions. Furthermore, data on complaints, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and sentences in relation to gender-based crimes, including “honour crimes,” is collected and monitored by the Gender Crime Cell of the National Police Bureau, reinforcing accountability and compliance.

25.Provincial Police Departments also maintain digitalized and disaggregated data on crimes such as honour killings, domestic violence, sexual abuse, harassment, trafficking and crimes against transgender persons. The data is maintained in a disaggregated manner by gender, age, district and nature of offence, ensuring accurate documentation and trend analysis. Regular coordination with district police offices, investigation branches and prosecution departments is carried out to update and verify records.

Statistical Data

26.The Government takes a proactive approach in eliminating all forms of violence against women including psychological, physical and sexual abuse, rape, burning and acid attacks, harassment, early and forced marriages, forced conversions, kidnapping and abduction, murder, and honor killing among others.

Violence Against Women 2022–2025
Year	Cases Registered	Convictions
2022	2 172	76
2023	2 692	100
2024	2 698	50
2025	2 442	25
Total	10 004	251

Provincial Breakdown of Honor-related Crimes 2016–2024
Province	2016	2024
Punjab	248	211
Sindh	111	62
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa	190	96
Balochistan	85	50
Total	634	419

Reply to paragraph 6

27.Article 9 of the Constitution guarantees the right to liberty while Article 10 provides safeguards against arbitrary arrest and detention. Furthermore, the Pakistan Penal Code (Sections 359–365) criminalizes unlawful deprivation of liberty, kidnapping, abduction and wrongful confinement, which encompass acts associated with enforced disappearance. The Criminal Laws (Amendment) Bill 2021 proposed to add new provisions to the PPC to criminalize enforced disappearance and the proposed section comprehensively explained this term. The National Assembly approved the Bill on November 08, 2021 and referred to the Senate for further consideration. However, the bill lapsed due to completion of the tenure of the previous parliament. The bill is under consideration. Although there is no present law on enforced disappearances, PPC provides provisions to penalize the offence of enforced disappearance under the category of kidnapping/abduction/wrongful confinement.

28.Moreover, Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances (CoIoED), established in 2010, continues to play a central role in tracing missing persons, fixing responsibility and recommending preventive measures. The data on enforced disappearances is as follows:

Month wise receipt/disposal of cases by coioed

	2019	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024	2025
	Receipt	Disposal	Receipt	Disposal	Receipt	Disposal	Receipt	Disposal	Receipt	Disposal	Receipt	Disposal	Receipt	Disposal
January	71	48	50	69	23	24	34	48	91	37	55	43	26	209
February	76	60	45	42	144	154	48	51	99	57	42	35	12	104
March	62	75	24	37	714	230	76	51	141	59	18	53	30	34
April	138	50	33	10	71	330	122	133	91	109	15	30	11	42
May	73	54	13	21	145	185	35	50	82	88	20	47	19	82
June	32	91	12	49	45	45	38	55	29	78	47	28	27	33
July	121	82	43	23	37	30	42	75	157	177	26	27	15	70
August	55	42	23	26	22	56	96	60	74	98	43	35	-	-
September	40	73	34	76	32	27	38	42	47	35	36	42	-	-
October	59	69	45	30	37	44	128	135	14	-	15	25	-	-
November	43	65	23	34	88	123	98	101	14	-	33	28	-	-
December	32	97	67	16	102	70	70	75	48	40	29	44	-	-
Total	800	814	415	433	1 450	1 381	860	1 019	835	788	379	427	140	554

Article 3

Reply to paragraph 7

29.Pakistan is not a party to the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees nor its 1967 Protocol, however, it adheres to the international norms of refugee protection under customary international law. The refugees, stateless and aliens are treated in accordance with the provisions of the Foreigners Act, 1946. The UNHCR conducts refugee status determination under its mandate (Statute of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees adopted by the General Assembly Resolution 428 (V) of 14 December 1950) and on behalf of the Government of Pakistan in accordance with the 1993 Cooperation Agreement between the Government of Pakistan and the UNHCR. Pakistan generally accepts UNHCR decisions to grant refugee status and allows asylum‑seekers (who are still undergoing the procedure) as well as recognized refugees to remain in Pakistan pending identification of a durable solution.

Reply to paragraph 8

30.The Government of Pakistan, provides opportunity of registration to illegal migrants to obtain status of refugee as per law. In February 2007, the Government concluded a registration exercise of Afghan refugees living in Pakistan and issued Proof of Registration (PoR) cards to them, which provide temporary legal stay in Pakistan, freedom of movement and exemption from the application of the Foreigners Act, 1946. Approximately 1.34 million Afghans are currently holding PoR cards. The Documentation Verification and Information Verification (DRIVE) exercise is currently taking place led by the GoP and supported by UNHCR. All PoR card holders verified through this exercise will receive new smart PoR cards with a 2-year validity. Currently, 11 POR Card Modification Centers (PCM) are working in Pakistan. The 2023 census desegregates data on the basis of the nationalities: Pakistani, Afghani, Bengali, Chinese and Others. Currently there are 1.42 Million Afghan Refugees in Pakistan bearing Proof of Registration Cards, there are 0.85 Million Afghan Citizen Ship Card holders, and 1.5 Million Unregistered Afghans and 0.29 Million overstaying cases. Moreover, 1.6 million Bengalis and up to 0.4 Million Rohingyas are living in Pakistan. Currently, there are a total of 1.539 million refugees living in Pakistan. Data regarding ethnic orientation includes: Pashtun 87 %, Uzbek 3 %, Baloch 2 %, Tajik 5 %, Hazara and Turkmen 1 % among PoR card holders; Pashtun 93 %, Hazara and Persian 1.4 %, Tajik 1.2. % and other ethnic groups less than 1 % among ACC holders.

Implementation of the IFRP: Balancing Security and Humanitarian Concerns

31.Illegal Foreigners’ Repatriation Plan (IFRP) was developed in response to legitimate security concerns, as well as the need to address the presence of illegal foreign nationals within Pakistan. The plan’s implementation began in November 2023, with the first phase focusing on the deportation of individuals who are in Pakistan illegally. This includes those who are unregistered, have overstayed their visas, or are in possession of fraudulent identification documents. It is important to underscore that the IFRP is not an indiscriminate or arbitrary measure. Rather, it is a structured, coordinated effort that involves meticulous planning and execution. Regular progress review meetings are held to ensure that the plan is being implemented in accordance with legal provisions and that national security concerns remain balanced with Pakistan’s international humanitarian obligations.

Humanitarian Safe Passage and Legal Protections

32.One of the key aspects of the IFRP is the provision of Humanitarian Safe Passage (HSP) exit permits. These permits are issued to Afghan nationals who wish to relocate to third countries, ensuring that they are not forcibly returned to places where they might face persecution or harm or danger to well-being. This provision is a clear demonstration of Pakistan’s commitment to the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits the return of individuals to a country where they may face serious threats to their life or freedom. Additionally, Pakistan’s legal framework, including the Foreigners Act, provides for exemptions that ensure individuals are treated humanely and in accordance with international legal obligations. These legal provisions are in place to prevent any form of discrimination or harassment against Afghan nationals or any other foreign nationals in Pakistan.

Addressing Allegations of Discrimination and Harassment of Afghan Refugees

33.Government has zero tolerance for any form of discrimination, harassment or violence against Afghan refugees. Law enforcement agencies have been instructed to handle all cases of illegal foreigners with the utmost professionalism and respect for human rights. Any reports of misconduct are taken seriously and measures are in place to investigate and address such issues promptly. The Government also recognizes the challenges faced by Afghan nationals residing in Pakistan and has taken steps to ensure their rights are protected. This includes facilitating access to legal assistance, providing avenues for reporting grievances and working closely with international organizations to monitor the situation and provide necessary support. While over 600,000 Afghans have voluntarily returned, only around 30,000 have been deported. Registered refugees holding valid documents continue to enjoy full access to health and education services. Refugee children attend Pakistani schools and families can use public and private health facilities without restriction. The Ministry of SAFRON oversees the voluntary repatriation of Afghan refugees under the tripartite agreement with Afghanistan and UNHCR. Repatriation is strictly voluntary and dignified, carried out through centers in Peshawar (Chamkani) and Balochistan (Baleli). Returning families are registered with NADRA, issued Voluntary Repatriation Forms (VRFs) and facilitated with financial assistance of $375 per individual and $700 per family.

Articles 5–9

Reply to paragraph 9

34.Extradition Act, 1972 is a domestic law that governs the process of surrendering fugitive offenders between Pakistan and other countries. Cooperation measures, such as evidence sharing or assistance have been implemented in specific instances pursuant to applicable treaties or arrangements. Pakistan has Agreements on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters with six countries. Two agreements on Mutual Legal Assistance were signed during the reporting period. Similarly, Pakistan has Extradition Treaties with a total of 35 countries. Two Extradition Treaties were signed during the reporting period.

Article 10

Reply to paragraph 10

35.Provincial police and prison departments have undertaken initiatives to incorporate human rights principles, custodial safeguards and ethical investigation techniques into training curricula. In Punjab, extensive training has been carried out under the Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention and Punishment) Act, 2022. Between 2023 and 2025, approximately 3,500 police officials (ASI to DSP) received torture-prevention training with an additional 1474 trained under specialized courses such as probationer classes, integrated courses and custodial safeguards. All Police Officer/officials are taught non-coercive investigation technique systematically during investigation.

36.In Sindh, the Police Department has organized several human rights-focused trainings, in collaboration with Sindh Human Rights Commission and Civil Society Organizations. Notably, a two-day capacity-building workshop for prison officials, organized with Sindh Prisons and Correctional Services, emphasized human dignity, ethical custodial responsibilities and compliance with international human rights standards. Additionally, content related to penalties to commit torture is included in the syllabus of Sindh police including the main document of Sindh Police i.e. The Sindh (Repeal of the Police Act, 1861 and Revival of Police Order, 2002) (Amendment) Act, 2019. Under the Curriculum Development Program of Sindh Police, various Modules such as Basic Investigation Handbook, Forensic Investigation Handbook and Protecting Human Rights,are also part of the syllabus. In the given time frame (2019–2024), 50,652 officers received training on torture prevention with the help of these modules. Also, the newly established institution of Sindh Police i.e. Training Directorate is continuously collecting data on the effectiveness of police trainings. Medical Officers and relevant staff are also trained on human rights, medico‑legal procedures and handling of vulnerable groups through collaborations with human rights bodies and international partners.

37.In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 4800 police personnel have undergone training on torture prevention, lawful investigative methods and human rights awareness. Among prison staff, 1283 received orientation on custodial safeguards and appropriate use of force. Some Medico-Legal Officers in Peshawar and Abbottabad have also been oriented on human rights-based documentation in collaboration with NGOs, although the Istanbul Protocol is not yet systematically included in medico-legal training.

38.Balochistan organized human rights related training sessions for more than2000 police and prison staff, focusing on lawful investigation, safeguards for detainees and the prohibition of torture. The training manuals for police, prison and medico-legal personnel incorporate the principles of the Istanbul Protocol, particularly on lawful investigation, documentation and the treatment of detainees.

Reply to paragraph 11

39.All law enforcement and prison officials are prohibited from torture and ill-treatment with clear instructions and circulars reiterating zero tolerance. Training curricula in police academies and prison departments include modules on non-coercive investigation techniques, such as forensic evidence collection, behavioural interviewing and victim and witness sensitive approaches. Prisons are governed by codified rules strictly prohibiting torture. The Government has also begun aligning training with the Méndez Principles, focusing on rapport-based and rights-respecting interviewing. So far, 4055 officials across the country have been trained in these non-coercive techniques.

Article 11

Reply to paragraphs 12 and 14

40.The Government of Pakistan has undertaken concrete measures to address issues related to overcrowding and poor conditions in detention facilities. Key initiatives include the establishment of probation and parole services, infrastructure development such as construction of new prisons and expansion of existing ones and judicial reforms aimed at reducing the influx of prisoners. Efforts to reduce the intake of inmates involve the introduction of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms and the practice of judicial officers visiting jails to conduct summary trials, especially for petty offenses. A major milestone is the construction of a Model Jail in Islamabad with a capacity to house 4000 inmates. With a budget allocation of Rs. 18.1 billion, this facility is expected to become operational within the next six months to one year.

Infrastructure Development and Non-Custodial Reforms

41.Since 2015, high-security barracks have been constructed in major central jails, including those in Rawalpindi, Lahore, Multan and Faisalabad. Thirteen new district and sub‑jails have also been established. Currently, three additional jails – District Jail Nankana, Sub Jail Samundari and Pindi Bhattian are under construction, offering a combined capacity of 1,500 prisoners. Furthermore, two new jails specifically for women have been approved in Lahore and Faisalabad.

42.A significant revamp of Central Jail Rawalpindi is underway. The prison currently houses 7,590 inmates against a sanctioned capacity of just 2,174. Plans include the construction of multi-storied barracks with an added capacity of 1,536 inmates and the administrative division of the facility into three separate units, including a dedicated women’s jail. The Model Prison in Islamabad will also house inmates falling under the jurisdiction of the Islamabad High Court.

43.In Sindh, budget allocations have been made for infrastructure expansion to address growing needs. These include Rs. 58 million for the expansion of District Jail Malir to accommodate 1,000 inmates, Rs. 10 million for the construction of a high-security jail in Thatta and Rs. 20 million for a new prison facility in Shaheed Benazirabad.

44.Alongside infrastructure improvements, non-custodial and rehabilitative measures have been introduced to minimize reliance on imprisonment, particularly for vulnerable populations such as women and juveniles. In Punjab, the Punjab Probation and Parole Service Act 2019 has been effectively operationalized. A dedicated Director General has been appointed to oversee the service and the Offender Management Information System (OMIS) has been developed to digitally track individuals released on probation. A multi-stakeholder Parole Board comprising members from the prisons and prosecution departments as well as academic psychologists has been established to evaluate parole eligibility and provide policy recommendations. These efforts aim to promote community-based rehabilitation and reduce custodial sentencing.

Improvements in Prison Conditions and Inmate Welfare

45.Significant progress has been made nationwide to enhance the living conditions and overall welfare of inmates. All prison departments are now required to provide food that meets nutritional standards and dietary provisions are regularly reviewed to ensure quality. Access to clean drinking water has been secured across facilities, while sanitation and hygiene practices have been strengthened. Regular disinfection of living areas and sanitation blocks is carried out to maintain a healthy environment. Facilities are also being upgraded to ensure adequate space, natural light, ventilation and temperature control.

46.Healthcare services have been institutionalized in all provinces with routine medical check-ups and access to treatment available for a variety of health conditions. A new Chapter 44-A has been added to the Pakistan Prison Rules, 1978 to define the responsibilities of the District Prison Health Council (Notification No. SO (Prs)2-Gen/2021 dated December 20, 2023). To improve inmates’ access to their families, PCOs have been installed in all jails, allowing two to three weekly calls per inmate. In Punjab, video calling facilities have also been introduced. Entertainment and educational opportunities have been expanded. Inmates are allowed to participate in indoor and outdoor games and every jail is equipped with a library. These libraries are regularly updated in collaboration with NGOs and philanthropists to offer books on a variety of subjects.

Province-wise Initiatives

Punjab

47.Punjab has implemented a gender-sensitive prison management framework in alignment with international standards such as the United Nations Bangkok Rules and Tokyo Rules. Chapter 13 of the Pakistan Prison Rules governs the treatment of female prisoners, mandating provisions like the immediate transfer of juvenile female inmates to women’s jails, segregation of inmates by age and offense type, and female-only staff in women’s prison blocks. The province has also introduced hygiene kits, special diets for pregnant women, and separate sanitation and bathing areas to ensure dignity and privacy. Medical check-ups for female inmates are conducted by women medical officers. In collaboration with organizations such as SOS Village, Khubaib Foundation and Women Aid Trust Punjab ensures educational continuity and proper care for children over six years old who live with their mothers in jail.

Sindh

48.Sindh has made notable strides in prison reform through the Sindh Prisons and Corrections Services Act and Rules, 2019. This legal framework focuses on rehabilitation and reintegration rather than punitive approaches. Under Section 55 of the Act, a dedicated committee addresses prisoner welfare and offers services such as free legal aid, mental health support, football training for juvenile inmates, and vocational training for women. The province promotes alternatives to incarceration, including mediation in compoundable offenses, bail facilitation, and rehabilitation referrals. Separate facilities for women, including early learning centers for their children, are operational in Karachi and Hyderabad. Juvenile offenders are housed separately in the Youthful Offenders Industrial School, where they receive formal education and religious instruction. Between 2019 and 2024, a total of 1,652 disciplinary cases were recorded in Sindh prisons, of which 1,326 have been finalized and 326 are pending. All cases are handled under due process in accordance with the Sindh Prisons and CS Rules 2019. Oversight is ensured through regular inspections by judicial bodies, the Sindh Human Rights Commission, National Commission for Human Rights, and other relevant organizations.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

49.Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has introduced strict sanitation protocols in women’s detention facilities. Regular cleaning of living quarters and toilets is carried out, and menstrual hygiene management is supported through health education sessions. Medical care is provided, with a focus on female prisoners’ well-being.

Balochistan

50.In Balochistan, efforts are ongoing to improve hygiene and healthcare services, particularly for women inmates. Access to clean drinking water, availability of sanitary products, and medical facilities are being prioritized in the province’s prisons.

Measures to Address Under-trial and Pre-trial Detention

51.Reducing under-trial and pre-trial detention has been a national priority. To this end, the number of judicial officers has been increased to expedite hearings. Strengthened prosecution departments and the implementation of summary trials inside jails have helped expedite case disposal, particularly for minor offenses. The use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms has reduced case backlogs and resolved disputes outside of court. Online court hearings and remote witness examinations have further streamlined judicial processes. Several legal provisions support this effort. Section 265-K of the Criminal Procedure Code allows courts to acquit the accused if evidence is insufficient; Section265‑D facilitates charge framing based on police reports; and Section 249-A permits Magistrates to acquit an individual at any stage of the trial if justified. Protective bail measures, such as pre‑arrest bail and personal surety bonds, help prevent unnecessary incarceration. In civil matters, courts emphasize resolution without resorting to imprisonment, thereby easing pressure on detention facilities.

Statistical Data

Detention facilities
Province	Detention Facilities	Authorized Capacity	Current Population
Balochistan	12	2 764	2 874
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa	39	13 375	13 961
Punjab	43	37 217	68 204
Sindh	24	13 538	22 721
Total	118	66 894	103 175

Reply to paragraph 13

52.Disciplinary measures in places of detention across Pakistan are regulated by comprehensive legal and administrative frameworks that ensure due process, proportionality and oversight. The governing instruments include the Prisons Act, 1894, the Pakistan Prison Rules, 1978 and updated provincial rules, which set out disciplinary offences, permissible penalties and safeguards to prevent abuse. Disciplinary offences include wilful disobedience of prison regulations, assault, threatening behaviour, tampering with property or restraints, possession of contraband, and attempts to escape. All infractions are dealt with under documented procedures and reviewed by supervisory authorities, with superintendents responsible for ensuring compliance with due process.

53.Moreover, oversight is ensured through multiple layers. These include monthly inspections by District and Sessions Judges, additional visits by High Court judges, executive inspections by Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners and Health Authorities. Moreover, independent monitoring through the Directorates of Monitoring is maintained by provincial Home Departments. Civil society representatives also play a role as Non-Official Visitors (NOVs), including lawyers, retired judges and journalists, who are empowered under prison rules to carry out unannounced inspections and submit independent reports. Jail Committees also regularly review prison conditions and recommend policy measures to improve living conditions in jail to the government.

54.Solitary confinement is defined in the Pakistan Prison Rules, 1978 as the complete separation of a prisoner from others. It can be awarded under restricted conditions according to Sections 73 and 74 of the Pakistan Penal Code and Rule 638 of the Prison Rules. However, the law places strict limits on its use. For prisoners sentenced to six months or less, solitary confinement can be given for a maximum of one month. For those sentenced to more than six months but not more than one year, it can be given for up to two months. If the sentence is more than one year, solitary confinement can go up to three months. In all cases, it cannot be continuous for more than 14 days. There must also be a break between two periods of solitary confinement, and the break must be at least as long as the previous confinement period.

55.Prisoners’ health is monitored through daily visits by Senior Medical Officers and all instances are recorded on the prisoner’s History Ticket, with further regulation through Rules 640–642 which govern record-keeping, endorsements and separation from other disciplinary measures. Children in conflict with the law and persons with intellectual or psychosocial disabilities are not subjected to solitary confinement. The use of fetters and other physical restraints has effectively fallen into disuse and no cases of their use have been recorded during the reporting period. Furthermore, corporal punishment is explicitly prohibited under prison rules and is not applied in any province. All prisons maintain registers of disciplinary penalties which are periodically reviewed by inspecting judges and monitoring bodies to ensure proportionality and compliance with human rights standards.

Reply to paragraph 14

56.The Government of Pakistan has undertaken concrete measures to improve prison conditions (refer to para 12 for details). To evaluate conformity between international standards and domestic regulations, the following comparative table outlines key Nelson Mandela Rules and their corresponding provisions under the Pakistan Prison Rules, 1978:

Mapping of Nelson Mandela Rules to Pakistan Prison Rules

Sr. No	United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners [the Nelson Mandela Rules] 17 December, 2015	The Pakistan Prison Rules 1978
1	Rule 6–10: Prisoner File Management	Rule 10–24: Admission of Prisoners. Rule 25: Procedure on completion of entries in admission register
2	Rule 11: Separation of categories	Rule 4: Classification of prisons Rule 225–249: additional classification and segregation of prisoners Rule 401: Segregation of civil prisoners
3	Rule 12: Accommodation	Rule 622: Prisoners in Cell Rule 875–881: Prison Buildings
4	Rule 18: Personal hygiene	Rule 745–775: Sanitation Rule 661: Ablution and morning meals Rule 682: Cutting of hair
5	Rule 19: Clothing and bedding	Rule 508 to 537: clothing and equipment. Rule 306–328: women prisoners and children diet and clothing
6	Rule 22: Food	Rule 469–489: Diet according to scale, including morning meal, midday & evening meals, extra diet for nursing mothers, pregnant women and children. Rule 473: Midday and evening meals Rule 475: Issue of special diet on Eids
7	Rule 23: Exercise and sport	Rule 279: Walking exercise Rule 299: Physical drill, gymnastics and games
8	Rule 24: Health-care services	Rule 776–809: Medical administration Rule 435–445: Mental patients and transfer to mental hospital
9	Juvenile	Rule 283: Youthful offenders’ detention in Reformatory School
10	Rule 65: Religion	Rule 477: Aftari to prisoners observing fasts daring Ramzan Rule 681: Matters affecting caste or religion
11	Rule 83: Internal and external inspections	Rule 693–730: Watch and Ward Rule 907: District Co-ordination Officer to visit prisons Rule 913: Visitors
12	Rule 104: Education and recreation	Rule 215: Education Rule 283 to 298: Education and industrial training of youthful offenders Rule 297: Industrial training of inmates.
13	Rule 106: Social relations	Rule 913 to 934: Visitors Rule 538–570: Letters and Interviews Rule 680: Radio and Television

57.Special attention is accorded to the treatment of women prisoners, reflected in Chapter 13 of the Pakistan Prison Rules, 1978. Notable rules include:

Rule 292–293: Juvenile and convicted female prisoners to be confined in women’s prisons.

Rules 308–309: Age classification and separation of classes.

Rules 322–328: Maternal care, childbirth in prisons, diet, and child accommodation.

Rules 314–315: Restriction on male staff entry and procedures for searches.

Reply to paragraph 15

58.To streamline healthcare provision in prisons, the administrative control of prison hospitals has been transferred to the Health Department Punjab, which is now responsible for all future medical and dental staff recruitments. In 2024, 257prisoner deaths were recorded across Punjab’s jails. According to official records, none were attributed to torture. Each incident was investigated by a Magistrate Section-30, deputed by the relevant District & Sessions Judge. The following tables show prison data in terms of number of male and female deaths in custody, causes of death in each case as officially recorded and status of outcomes of investigations conducted in each case.

Executions Carried Out (Prison Data)

2020	2021	2022	2023	2024
0	0	0	0	0

Causes of Death in Each Case as Officially Recorded (Prison Data)

Year	Natural Causes ’	Suicide	Alleged Abuse	Illness
2019	213	3	0	28
2020	245	2	1	39
2021	272	1	2	34
2022	225	4	3	26
2023	240	5	0	23
2024	257	3	6	41

59.In all cases involving sudden, unnatural, or violent death, or where the cause of death is contested, an inquest is conducted under Section 174 of the Criminal Procedure Code by a first-class magistrate. The Superintendent Jail is also required to submit the inquest report to the Inspector General of Prisons, under Rule 736 of the Pakistan Prison Rules, 1978. Moreover, Minnesota Protocol has also been formally adopted in Punjab.

60.In Sindh, all custodial deaths reported during 2019–2024 occurred due to natural causes such as chronic diseases and medical complications. In every case, a Judicial Magistrate conducts an inquest and a post-mortem examination is carried out. The inquest report, along with the medical findings, forms the official record of each incident. Oversight is ensured through a multi-tier mechanism. Judicial Magistrates and District & Sessions Judges conduct random inspections of prisons every fifteen days, while independent bodies such as the Sindh High Court, Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC), NCHR and other stakeholders regularly monitor custodial conditions. In addition, the Inspector General of Prisons and the concerned Deputy Inspectors General undertake frequent inspections to ensure accountability and safeguard the rights of inmates. Where admissible, compensation or relief to the legal heirs of the deceased is granted in accordance with judicial recommendations and applicable government policy, upon conclusion of the inquiry proceedings.

61.Currently, 36 Medical Officers and 27 Prison Medical Officers serve across Sindh prisons. The forensic and medico-legal examinations of detainees are not conducted by the Prisons Department but independently by the Health Department under the supervision of the Judicial Magistrate concerned, in accordance with law. The examinations are carried out under existing statutory provisions and medico-legal procedures which is in line with Minnesota Protocol. Data received on deaths in de in Sindh province for the period of 2019–2024 is as follows:

Category	2019	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024
Total No. of Male deaths in custody year wise	29	45	47	78	89	80
Total No. of Female deaths in custody year wise	01	Nil	01	Nil	Nil	Nil
Cause of death in each case, as officially recorded ( e.g natural causes, suicide, alleged abuse, illness etc.) No executions carried out since 2020.

62.In KP, since 2019, the following vacant posts have been filled through direct appointments: one position of Technologist (BPS-17) and twenty-three positions of Junior Technician (Pharmacy/Dental) (BPS-12). Additionally, several posts have been filled through promotion during the same period, including four posts of Chief Technician (BPS‑16), six posts of Senior Technician (BPS-16), and nine posts of Technician (BPS-14). Furthermore, recruitment for forty-six additional posts of Junior Technician (BPS-12) is currently in process. The Government of KP provided a detailed breakdown of medical and dental staff currently posted in prisons across the province.

Filled Medical Staff positions in KP Prisons

Designation	Sanctioned Posts	Filled Posts
Principal Medical Officer (BPS-19)	01	01
Senior Medical Officer (BPS-18)	05	03
Psychiatrist (BPS-18)	03	03
Surgical Specialist (BPS-18)	01	01
Physiotherapist (BPS-18)	01	01
Cardiologist (BPS-18)	01	01
Medical Officer (BPS-17)	34	26
Women Medical Officer (BPS-17)	06	05
Dental Surgeon (BPS-17)	02	02
Technologist (BPS-17)	03	02
Chief Technician (BPS-16)	05	05
Senior Technician (BPS-16)	07	07
Nurse (BPS-16)	02	02
Technician (BPS-14)	13	12
Junior Technician (Pharmacy/Dental etc.) (BPS-12)	120	63

63.The following table outlines the number of deaths in custody in KP province:

Year	Male Deaths	Female Deaths
2019	35	0
2020	48	0
2021	49	1
2022	51	0
2023	54	0
2024	52	1
Total	289	2

64.The following table outlines the number of executions carried out in Balochistan province:

2020	2021	2022	2023	2024
0	0	0	0	0

Reply to paragraph 16

65.Psychiatric care in Punjab is governed by the Mental Health Ordinance, 2001, which establishes the legal framework for involuntary hospitalization. Such admissions are generally carried out through court orders based on the recommendations of a consultant psychiatrist. The Ordinance incorporates review and appeal mechanisms to safeguard the rights of individuals subjected to psychiatric detention. The use of physical and chemical restraints in psychiatric settings is regulated under the Pakistan Prison Rules (PPR), 1978 and the Mental Health Ordinance, 2001. These restraints are permitted only as a measure of last resort, to be employed strictly when all other de-escalation methods have been exhausted.

Number of individuals detained in drug rehabilitation centres from 2019–2024 (Prison Data)

2019	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024
6 282	6 041	7 020	7 729	8 534	10 944
Total	46 550

66.The Sindh Mental Health Act, 2013 provides the legislative basis for involuntary psychiatric care within the province. It outlines urgent legal and administrative procedures for involuntary hospitalization, which are implemented with judicial oversight. Under Section 10 of the Act, individuals detained under mental health provisions have the right to appeal their detention within 14 days. Additionally, Sections 20 to 25 of the Act detail the procedures for granting leave and discharge to psychiatric patients, thereby ensuring due process. With regard to physical and chemical restraints, their use is governed by Section 14 of the Sindh Mental Health Act, 2013. This provision mandates clear procedural safeguards and allows for external oversight to prevent misuse. Importantly, the Sindh Mental Health Authority has confirmed that no individuals have been involuntarily detained in drug rehabilitation centres across the province between 2019 and 2024.

67.Psychiatric care and procedures for involuntary hospitalization in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are regulated under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Prisons Rules, 2018. Rule 455 stipulates that mentally ill prisoners cannot be subjected to punishment for disciplinary infractions. However, appropriate restraints may be applied strictly to prevent the individual from causing harm to themselves or others. Additionally, Rule 446 outlines the prerequisites for transferring a mentally ill prisoner to a psychiatric facility. This includes a mandatory certification by a Medical Officer confirming the prisoner’s physical fitness for travel and assurance from the receiving psychiatric hospital that suitable treatment and capacity are available to admit the individual.

68.The Balochistan Mental Health Act, 2019 offers a comprehensive legal framework for psychiatric care in the province. It provides for the establishment of a Mental Health Authority, which was formally notified in June 2020 and is tasked with overseeing the implementation of the Act and safeguarding patient rights. The Act also defines an “Approved Psychiatrist” as a medical practitioner registered with the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council who holds a recognized postgraduate qualification and is approved by the Authority. Furthermore, the Act mandates the creation of psychiatric facilities across the province for assessment, treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care of individuals with mental health conditions. Moreover, physical and chemical restraints are governed by legal and policy frameworks that prioritize least restrictive interventions, such as Patient assessment, Monitoring and documentation, Staff training and External oversight mechanisms (e.g. Mental Health Authorities). These frameworks are consistent with international norms, includingThe Mental Health Act 1983 (UK Code of Practice, Minnesota Protocol (for cases involving potential ill-treatment or custodial death) and guidance from relevant professional associations and regulatory agencies. Regarding involuntary detentions in drug rehabilitation centres, the Government of Balochistan provided monthly data covering the years 2019 to 2024, reflecting the number of individuals involuntarily detained in such facilities. The figures are presented in the table below:

Month	2019	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024
Jan	0	2	9	3	6	3
Feb	0	2	4	3	2	0
Mar	0	3	0	12	5	4
Apr	0	0	3	4	1	4
May	0	0	8	0	9	2
Jun	0	0	13	9	1	4
Jul	22	0	2	7	2	6
Aug	13	6	9	11	5	5
Sep	2	13	7	14	15	6
Oct	0	4	2	7	5	5
Nov	16	4	2	5	2	4
Dec	6	4	2	16	2	2
Total	59	38	61	91	55	45
Grand Total from 2019 to 2024	349

Reply to paragraph 17

69.Government has established a multi-tiered system for detention monitoring, combining internal oversight with independent inspections. Surprise visits are conducted by provincial Home Department Monitoring Teams, prison officials, food authorities and judicial officers. District and Sessions Judges carry out monthly inspections, while High Court judges, Members of Parliament, Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, District Health Authorities and Human Rights & Minority Affairs officials also undertake visits to ensure compliance with rules and improve conditions.

70.In Punjab, the Human Rights and Minority Affairs Department is authorized to conduct unannounced jail visits, with similar arrangements in other provinces. Monitoring extends beyond prisons to police stations, psychiatric institutions, social care homes and immigration detention centres. Under Rule 918 of the Pakistan Prison Rules, 1978, Non‑official Visitors (NOVs) including lawyers, retired judges, and journalists are empowered to conduct unannounced visits and submit independent reports. The National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) has a central role in their mandate and frequently conducts inspections in all places of detention, publish reports and issue recommendations. Moreover, the Prison authorities have constituted independent oversight committees to monitor breach of rights of prisoners. It has full access to facilities and is supported by dedicated human and financial resources, with ongoing efforts to expand its provincial presence and staff training. In addition, functional Jail Committees across the country conduct independent inspections and issue reports to enhance transparency and accountability.

Articles 12–13

71.Refer to Para 1.

Reply to paragraph 19

72.The Government of Pakistan has established several independent and accessible complaint mechanisms for prisoners to report torture, ill-treatment or abuse. Externally, District and Sessions Judges regularly inspect prisons and receive complaints. Administrative secretaries and Home Department Monitoring Directorates also review such cases. Internally, prison Superintendents, DIGs, and IGs conduct routine and surprise inspections to ensure accountability. All jails are equipped with Complaint Management and Monitoring Cells (CMMCs), offering multiple channels for prisoners to submit complaints. These include toll‑free helplines, email, written applications, and in-person submissions. Confidential grievance boxes, open hearings with jail officials, and direct access to visiting judicial officers and human rights bodies are also in place. Complaints are recorded and investigated according to law. Since 2022, a total of 425 complaints have been filed through these independent mechanisms. Of these, 410 have been resolved and 15 are currently under investigation. To further enhance oversight, CCTV cameras are installed in prisons and lock‑ups, with footage regularly reviewed. In police departments, Internal Accountability Branches investigate complaints of abuse or torture, leading to disciplinary or criminal action where required. Regarding Article 11 of the Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention and Punishment) Act, 2022, which criminalizes mala fide complaints, it is applied with caution. There is no evidence of it being misused against genuine complainants. Authorities ensure that this provision is not used as a tool of reprisal, and multiple external complaint options provide additional protection for victims.

Reply to paragraph 20

73.To ensure independent investigations into allegations of torture and ill-treatment, the Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention and Punishment) Act, 2022 provides that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) shall investigate such cases under Section 5 of the Act. The law is applicable to allof Pakistan with no exception. The FIA is authorized to conduct suo motu investigations and operates independently from police or prison departments, thus avoiding any institutional or hierarchical link with alleged perpetrators. While the FIA has full authority under the Act to investigate civilian officials, cases involving military personnel fall outside its jurisdiction and are addressed under separate legal frameworks. Operational rules under the Act are currently under legal vetting. Meanwhile, the FIA has developed and implemented SOPs in December 2024, which clearly define the roles and responsibilities of investigating officers and ensure standardized handling of complaints. District Standing Medical Boards (DSMBs) assist in the investigation process by conducting medical examinations in alleged torture cases. These boards include forensic experts and their members are trained in the application of the Istanbul Protocol.

Reply to paragraph 21

74.The Actions (in Aid of Civil Power) Regulations, 2011 were formulated in conformity with international human rights law, making any abuse or misuse of force during operations punishable. Military personnel are subject to accountability under the Army Act 1952 through courts-martial, ensuring that violations, including acts amounting to torture, are dealt with under the law.

Article 14

Reply to paragraph 22

75.Under Section 14(3) of the Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention and Punishment) Act, 2022, the courts are empowered to provide remedies, including compensation, to victims of torture and their families. A notable example is Government of Sindh v. Muhammad Sarwar (PLD 2023 Sindh 154), where the Sindh High Court awarded Rs. 5,000,000 as compensation for custodial death, holding the police responsible for torture, unlawful detention, and failure to provide medical care.

Article 15

Reply to paragraph 23

76.Section 21-H does not make it mandatory for the courts to admit a confession recorded by a police officer under the ATA, 1997. A statement under Section 21-H may only be recorded by a senior police officer of the rank of District Superintendent of Police in limited circumstances. Specifically, where during proceedings under this Act the evidence, including circumstantial evidence, raises a presumption of reasonable probability that the accused has committed the offence, only then may a voluntary confession be recorded by such officer after fulfilling all legal requirements. Any such confession remains subject to judicial scrutiny, and its admissibility is purely conditional and not binding on the Court. Furthermore, Section 3 and 4 of the Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention and Punishment) Act, 2022 states that any statement, information or confession obtained by a public official as a result of torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment shall be inadmissible evidence in any proceedings against the person making it. A public official who knowingly uses such information shall be criminally liable. The application of Section 21-H is subject to approval of the court. In case the court is not satisfied with the circumstances of the confessional statement, any such statement is not admissible. For instance, in a case registered under ATA 1997 in Rawalpindi, the court struck down the confessional statement made before the police. Similarly, in another case registered in the District Narowal, the confessional statement of the accused was not accepted by the Court.

Article 16

Reply to paragraph 24

77.Hate speech and related conduct are criminalized under the Pakistan Penal Code (Sections 153A and 505(2)) and the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997 (Sections 8, 11W, 11EE, and the Fourth Schedule). These provisions empower law enforcement to promptly register FIRs, investigate, and prosecute hate crimes, with penalties including imprisonment and fines. The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) also has the authority to investigate cases related to hate speech. In parallel, the Government of Pakistan has launched the Pakistan Code website, an online repository of laws and regulations, allowing citizens to easily access and familiarize themselves with legislation, including provisions related to hate crimes.Public service awareness messages are also regularly disseminated through mainstream media to further sensitize the public. From 2019 to 2024, 163 hate speech cases were reported in Punjab; all were challaned, with 37 arrests and 19 convictions. In Sindh, 20 cases were reported, 9 challaned, and the rest are pending. Sindh Police enforce strict compliance, registering FIRs, conducting impartial inquiries, and coordinating with prosecution, alongside awareness and capacity-building programs for officers. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 41 cases under hate speech and loudspeaker laws are pending trial in 2024, while in Balochistan one case was registered during this period.

Cases taken up by PTA before Social Media Companies

78.During the period from 2022 to 2024 (till June), PTA forwarded requests to different social media companies (SMCs) for the removal of content preaching hate against specific individuals or groups. Details are as under:

Requests Sent to SMCs for Blocking Hateful Content	2022	2023	2024
a. Facebook	95	134	129
b. Twitter	272	173	32
c. YouTube	1	37	17
d. Daily Motion	73	23	5
e. Others	-	17	58

79.Requests were also forwarded to SMC for blocking sectarian objectionable content, details of which are as under:

Requests Sent to SMCs for Blocking Sectarian Hate Content	2022	2023	2024
a. Facebook	1 147	2 013	497
b. Twitter	686	1 262	56
c. YouTube	14	4	162
d. Daily Motion	168	693	95
e. Others	-	75	39

80.There has been a positive response from SMCs and the compliance rate during the year 2023 stood at 56.7 % while the same was recorded at 26 % in the year 2022.

Reply to paragraph 25

81.Pakistan has taken legislative and administrative measures to prohibit corporal punishment in line with its obligations under CAT. In the Islamabad Capital Territory, the Prohibition of Corporal Punishment Act, 2021 bans all forms of corporal punishment in public and private educational institutions, prescribing minor and major penalties for offenders. The Act overrides Section 89 PPC, which had previously allowed corporal punishment “in good faith,” thereby ensuring complete prohibition.

82.In Punjab, the Punjab Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2014 explicitly prohibits corporal punishment (Section 16) and classifies it as gross misconduct. Complementary provisions of the PPC (Sections 350, 351, 328-A, and 332) and the Punjab Destitute and Neglected Children Act, 2004 reinforce protections. The School Education Department’s 2018 notification reaffirmed the ban. Punjab has also undertaken institutional safety measures and initiatives such as the 6060 Learning Campus Initiative (35,000 enrolments), the School Meal Program (45,568 enrolments), stipends for girls, free textbooks, and use of the School Information System (SIS) for monitoring.

83.In Sindh, the Sindh Prohibition of Corporal Punishment Act, 2016 prohibits all forms of violence against children in schools, with penalties of up to 10 years’ imprisonment under PPC Sections 334 and 336. Since 2019, one case was reported in Karachi: a teacher caused a fracture to a student, leading to suspension of the school’s registration, a Rs. 25,000 fine, and mandatory medical compensation. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Child Protection and Welfare Act, 2010 criminalizes corporal punishment, supplemented by Education Department directives banning the practice in schools. Awareness campaigns and teacher training support enforcement. In Balochistan, the Child Protection Act, 2016 prohibits corporal punishment across schools, childcare facilities and detention centres. The Education Department has issued enforcement notifications, while district-level child protection units address complaints and ensure redress.

Reply to paragraph 26

84.33 offences contained death penalties, however, through legal amendments in two offences, the death penalty has been abolished and now 31 offences contain capital punishment. The juvenile offenders under the Juvenile Justice System Act, 2018 have also been exempted from award of death penalty. Ministry of Interior after the approval of Cabinet Committee on Legislative Reforms (CCLC) has prepared a draft Bill for consideration of Parliament to amend and replace the “death penalty” with “life imprisonment” under Sections 354 A (Assault or use of criminal force to woman and stripping her of her clothes) and 402 C (Punishment for harboring hijacking, etc.) of the Pakistan Penal Code, 1860. Once passed, this law will further reduce the scope of the death penalty under Pakistan’s criminal justice system. The Bill has been passed by the Senate on 18thJuly, 2025 and has been sent to National Assembly.

Punjab

Number of Death Sentences (Prison Data)

2019	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024
672	342	498	658	645	815

Number of executions carried out (Prison Data)

2020	2021	2022	2023	2024
0	0	0	0	0

Number of Death Sentences Commuted (Prison Data)

2019	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024
214	125	220	208	219	259

Number of Death Sentences Converted (Commuted)

2020	2021	2022	2023	2024	Total
148	192	188	115	173	816

Sindh

Indicator	Number (2019 – 2024)
Offences Punishable by Death	937
New Death Sentences	121
Executions	0
Death Sentences Commuted	69

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Year	New Death Sentences	Executions Carried Out	Death Sentences Commuted
2019	110	Nil	58
2020	36	Nil	33
2021	59	Nil	64
2022	83	Nil	36
2023	85	Nil	64
2024	80	Nil	64
Total	453	Nil	319

Balochistan

Number of executions carried out (Prison Data)

2020	2021	2022	2023	2024
0	0	0	0	0

Reply to paragraph 27

85.The Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act, 2021 establishes the legal and institutional framework to promote, protect and effectively ensure the independence, impartiality, safety and freedom of expression of journalists and media professionals. The Act mandates the formation of the Commission for the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals (CPJMP), tasked with investigating complaints from journalists, providing a robust redressal mechanism and determining eligibility for compensation costs from both federal and provincial funds. For the appointment of the Chairperson, Section 13(1) of the Act provides that the Ministry of Human Rights (MoHR), in consultation with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MoI&B), shall invite suggestions, conduct scrutiny, and submit a list of three candidates to the Federal Government. Under Section 13(2), the Federal Government appoints the Chairperson from the list submitted by MoHR. In line with these provisions, Mr. Kamal ud Din Tippu was appointed as the Chairperson of the CPJMP on 1July 2025 by MoHR. Furthermore, MoI&B has finalized and shared a summary with the Cabinet for the appointment of 15 members of the Commission. At this stage, since the Commission is in the process of becoming fully functional, no complaints, investigations, or awards of compensation have yet been finalized. Data will be provided to the Committee once the Commission begins registering and adjudicating cases.

Other

Reply to paragraph 28

86.The Actions (in Aid of Civil Power) Regulations, 2011 were framed in conformity with international human rights law, making abuse of force punishable and ensuring all detainees are kept in notified Internment Centers with cases reviewed by Provincial Oversight Boards under Section 14. On 7 May 2025, a seven-member Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court upheld the jurisdiction of Military Courts to try civilians for the 9–10 May 2023 attacks on military installations, affirming that all guarantees of fair trial must be ensured. A total of 105 civilians were convicted under the Pakistan Army Act, 1952 and the Official Secrets Act, 1923, receiving sentences of one to ten years; of these, 20 were released in April 2024 following remission, and a further 19 were released in January 2025 on humanitarian grounds. Military Court proceedings must remain consistent with Article 10-A of the Constitution and Pakistan’s international obligations. Convicts retain the right to appeal before higher judicial fora.