A Pakistani woman incarcerated at FMC Carswell in Fort Worth has filed a federal lawsuit alleging she has been subjected to sexual assault, physical attacks, and medical neglect. Aafia Siddiqui, a 52-year-old Pakistani citizen serving an 86-year sentence, was convicted in 2010 on charges related to the attempted murder of U.S. officers and employees in Afghanistan. The Pakistani government has been advocating for her release since 2008, citing previous allegations of abuse at the prison.
The lawsuit, filed by attorneys Maria Kari and Clive Smith, accuses Carswell staff of sexually assaulting Siddiqui, physically attacking her, and denying her access to necessary medical and mental health care. It also claims that she has been attacked by other inmates and has been deprived of her religious rights by not being allowed to meet with an Imam.
Siddiqui’s legal team is seeking a third-party investigation into the allegations and is pushing for her to receive proper medical care and religious accommodations. They are also in continuous talks with Pakistani leadership and have filed a petition for clemency, arguing for her innocence.
The lawsuit highlights the issue of sexual abuse in federal prisons, with Carswell having a documented problem of staff members sexually assaulting incarcerated individuals. The Bureau of Prisons is required to promptly investigate all sexual assault allegations and protect victims from further attacks, but Siddiqui and her lawyers claim that these protocols have not been followed in her case.
Despite Siddiqui’s controversial past and the U.S. government’s portrayal of her as a dangerous terrorist, many in Pakistan see her as a martyr and innocent victim of the war on terror. Siddiqui’s case has garnered significant attention and support, with protests in both Pakistan and the U.S. demanding justice for her.
The lawsuit against Carswell sheds light on the challenges faced by incarcerated individuals, especially women, who are vulnerable to abuse and exploitation within the prison system. The need for increased protections and accountability in federal prisons is evident, as cases of sexual assault and misconduct continue to be reported across the country.
Siddiqui’s case serves as a reminder of the complexities and injustices within the criminal justice system, highlighting the importance of upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their past actions or affiliations. As the legal battle continues, Siddiqui’s supporters remain hopeful that she will receive the justice and care she deserves.
