Prisoners in Pakistan are reportedly living in overcrowded and unhygienic conditions, lacking proper reform or rehabilitation efforts. Data shows that the country’s prisons are operating at over 150% capacity on average. The Supreme Court of Pakistan has emphasized caution in granting bail, with a focus on expediting pending cases that currently number at 2.2 million.
The backlog of cases in the judicial system poses challenges to implementing necessary prison reforms, leading to extended periods of incarceration for many awaiting trial. The system is criticized for disproportionately incarcerating individuals for drug-related offenses rather than prioritizing access to rehabilitation programs.
Despite lacking full constitutional rights, prisoners are entitled to dignity and access to rehabilitation services to aid in societal protection and reduce repeat offenses. The dire conditions extend to juvenile offenders as well, with around 90% of them awaiting trials, highlighting the need for urgent reforms and improved treatment of prisoners in the country.
