Big demo in US city of Dallas demands Aafia’s release.
NEW YORK: A large protest was held in Dallas, Texas, demanding the immediate release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani neuroscientist serving an 86-year prison sentence in the United States. The demonstration, reported by The Media Line, an American news agency focusing on the Middle East, called for U.S. President Joe Biden to grant her a humanitarian pardon, asserting she is an innocent victim of the so-called “war on terror.”
Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood, part of a delegation sent by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to advocate for Dr. Siddiqui’s release, described his meeting with her as “encouraging.” Other members of the delegation included Senator Bushra Anjum and psychiatrist Dr. Iqbal Afridi.
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Senator Mahmood expressed hope that President Biden, who is set to leave office on January 20, might consider granting her a pardon. “Outgoing presidents often issue pardons, and Dr. Siddiqui’s case is among over 60 requests currently under consideration,” he said. “We hope her plea will be prioritized and President Biden will show compassion.”
The delegation reportedly held discussions with U.S. senators, high-ranking State Department officials, and community leaders to advance their cause. They also collaborated with the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA), a grassroots organization dedicated to serving the Muslim community, which provided critical support for their efforts.
In Dallas, ICNA, established in 1968, continues to focus on education, outreach, and social services. Its Dallas chapter actively contributed to the campaign for Dr. Siddiqui’s release.
According to Senator Mahmood, Dr. Siddiqui shared her distress over her prolonged imprisonment and the emotional toll of being separated from her family. “She has already served 16 years, far exceeding the typical 10-year sentence for attempted murder in the U.S. Her deepest desire is to reunite with her children, parents, and loved ones,” he said.
He emphasized the symbolic significance of her release for the global Muslim community, stating it would reflect America’s commitment to justice and humanity. “Inshallah, Dr. Aafia will soon be released, returning to Pakistan to live a life of dignity with her children,” Senator Mahmood said with optimism.
