Dr. Aafia Siddiqui Files Federal Lawsuit Alleging Abuse and Rights Violations in US Prison
Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani neuroscientist serving an 86-year sentence at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) Carswell, has filed a detailed federal lawsuit against the US government, the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), and several prison officials.
The 61-page lawsuit, submitted nearly two months ago to the US District Court for the Northern District of Texas, accuses prison staff of severe constitutional and human rights violations. The allegations include sexual abuse, physical torture, denial of medical care, and religious discrimination, painting a grim picture of her treatment since her incarceration in 2010.
Severe Abuse Allegations
The lawsuit, filed by attorneys Naim Haroon Sakhia, Maria Kari, and Clive Stafford Smith, provides a harrowing account of the abuse Dr. Siddiqui has reportedly endured. She alleges repeated sexual assaults and physical abuse by prison staff and fellow inmates, describing a systemic culture of mistreatment at FMC Carswell.
The complaint details incidents where male guards allegedly raped and harassed her under the guise of routine checks. In one shocking incident, Siddiqui claims she was doused with a burning acidic liquid by prison staff as retaliation for reporting the abuse.
Religious Discrimination
The lawsuit also highlights persistent violations of Siddiqui’s religious freedom. As a devout Muslim, she has repeatedly requested access to an Imam for spiritual guidance, but FMC Carswell staff have allegedly ignored or delayed these requests.
Her legal team cited instances where male officers watched her during private moments, confiscated religious items, and forced her to strip, infringing upon her ability to practice her faith. Siddiqui has also been unable to participate in Friday prayers for over a decade.
Medical Neglect
The complaint underscores the inadequate medical care Siddiqui has received. Her attorneys argue that despite documented PTSD and physical ailments, including hearing loss and dental issues, prison authorities have failed to address her medical needs. This neglect, they contend, violates her Eighth Amendment rights.
Systemic Misconduct at FMC Carswell
Siddiqui’s case is situated within a broader pattern of abuse at FMC Carswell, which has faced previous allegations of misconduct. A 2022 investigation by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported widespread sexual abuse of female inmates by staff, with many incidents allegedly covered up.
The lawsuit names high-ranking officials, including BOP Director Colette Peters and FMC Carswell Warden Michael Smith, accusing them of deliberate indifference to Siddiqui’s suffering.
Legal Demands and International Implications
Siddiqui’s legal team is seeking a jury trial, a third-party investigation into the allegations, immediate protective measures, and improved access to religious counsel and independent medical care.
The case has drawn significant international attention. Pakistan’s government has repeatedly called for Siddiqui’s repatriation, while human rights activists view the lawsuit as a pivotal step toward accountability for her alleged mistreatment.
Attorney Statements
Attorney Naim Haroon Sakhia emphasized the gravity of the case, stating:
“Dr. Siddiqui has endured unimaginable suffering, and this case highlights systemic failures in the US prison system.”
Maria Kari added:
“This lawsuit represents not just Dr. Siddiqui but countless women silenced by similar abuses.”
Clive Stafford Smith noted the international ramifications:
“The United States must uphold its human rights commitments, particularly in cases scrutinized globally.”
The US Bureau of Prisons has not yet issued a statement regarding the lawsuit.
