Geneva, Switzerland: The International Human Rights Movement, under the leadership of Chairman Rana Basharat Ali Khan, is calling on President Joe Biden to grant clemency to Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani national currently imprisoned in the United States. Dr. Siddiqui, who has been in custody since 2008, is serving an 86-year sentence following a controversial conviction in 2010 related to an incident during her detention in Afghanistan. Dr. Siddiqui, now 52 years old, is a mother of three children—Ahmed, Mariam, and Suleman. Her prolonged incarceration has not only separated her from her family but has also raised significant concerns regarding her health and well-being. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have called attention to the treatment she has received, arguing that it constitutes a violation of international human rights norms.
Chairman Rana Basharat Ali Khan emphasizes, “This is a humanitarian issue that transcends borders. Granting clemency to Dr. Aafia Siddiqui would send a powerful message of compassion and reconciliation between the United States and Pakistan. It could serve as a catalyst for building stronger ties and fostering mutual respect between our nations.” The United Nations has long championed the principles of justice and mercy. Article 10 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights asserts the right to a fair trial, and there are growing calls for a re-evaluation of Dr. Siddiqui’s case based on these principles . Additionally, as noted in the Quran, “And if they incline to peace, then incline to it [also] and rely upon Allah” (Surah Al-Anfal, 8:61), this act of mercy could pave the way for healing and understanding .
Dr. Siddiqui’s release would not only alleviate the suffering of her family but also reflect the United States’ commitment to upholding human rights and ethical governance. This move could also enhance America’s standing in the eyes of the Pakistani people and the global community.