Aafia Siddiqui sues US authorities over alleged sexual assault in prison

Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani neuroscientist, has filed a 61-page lawsuit against the US government, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, and several prison officials.

Dr Aafia Siddiqui is a Pakistani neuroscientist, who has been imprisoned in the United States for nearly two decades. 

The lawsuit accuses prison staff of severe human rights violations, including sexual abuse, torture, denial of medical care, and religious discrimination.

According to the lawsuit, Siddiqui has endured repeated sexual assaults and physical abuse by prison staff and fellow inmates since her incarceration at FMC Carswell in 2010.

The lawsuit also claims that Siddiqui's religious rights have been consistently violated, including being denied access to an Imam for spiritual guidance and being unable to participate in Friday prayers for over a decade.

Siddiqui's legal team is demanding a jury trial, seeking declaratory and injunctive relief, and requesting a third-party investigation into the abuses.

They also seek immediate action to protect Siddiqui and improved access to religious counsel and independent medical care.

Her family and supporters view the lawsuit as a critical step in holding US authorities accountable for her alleged mistreatment.