The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed concern over the manner in which the government has conducted the trial of prominent Baloch nationalist leader Akhtar Mengal, saying it does not fulfil the criteria of justice.
"Mengal had been forced to sit in an iron cage away from his counsel. He is being denied even the most basic amenities like bedding and pillow, medical treatment, home food and permission to see his relatives," HRCP Secretary General Iqbal Haider said.
It was only on the orders of the ATC judge that a representative of the HRCP was allowed to observe the trial.
"No newsman or citizen could witness the trial. The trial does not fulfill the criteria of justice," Haider was quoted as saying by Dawn.
The special prosecutor opposed the HRCP's request to be allowed to observe the trial. He also opposed Mengal's request for medical treatment, saying he was in "a perfect shape".
Quoting Mengal, the HRCP official said the "jail administration has nothing to do with his custody; in fact the Military Intelligence is conducting the trial.
Haider asked the authorities to allow journalists and Mengal's relatives to witness the trial.
{{/usCountry}}Haider asked the authorities to allow journalists and Mengal's relatives to witness the trial.
{{/usCountry}}Mengal has been charged with abducting some police officials.