BAHRAIN’S human rights watchdog has refuted claims that three female inmates were not allowed to perform religious rituals and were not being provided proper medical care.
The National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR) said it visited the Women’s Reformation and Rehabilitation Centre in Isa Town twice, with the latest visit being on Sunday, following the allegations.
“The NIHR visited the centre twice, following reports on social media and claims by human rights activists that three Bahraini female inmates, out of 205 female inmates, were not being allowed to carry out their religious rituals, not receiving proper medical care and were being denied other rights, phone calls and visits,” said a statement yesterday.
“The NIHR viewed the medical, phone call and visitor records of the inmates involved and also viewed their charges independently including audio and video records. In addition, the NIHR delegation sat privately with the inmates and asked them about the alleged violations.
“The allegations turned out to be not true and the NIHR viewed visual records of other inmates performing their religious rituals freely.
“The NIHR also viewed visual records about allegations that an inmate was mistreated on September 16. It was found that authorities used legal force to ensure her safety and the safety of other inmates.
“It was also found that the inmates were entitled to visits and phone calls freely.
“The NIHR also informed authorities about the inmates’ suggestions about health care and privacy.”
The watchdog urged inmates to co-operate with the authorities and respect the rules of the centre.
Inmates were also urged to contact the NIHR on its hotline, 80001144.
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