Vasundhara Oswal Details Distressing Experience of Wrongful Detention in Uganda

Vasundhara Oswal, the daughter of billionaire Pankaj Oswal, was wrongfully detained in Uganda for two weeks on false charges of kidnapping and murder. Despite significant human rights abuses during her incarceration, she ultimately secured her release after overcoming numerous legal obstacles related to bribery and corruption.

Vasundhara Oswal, the daughter of Indian billionaire Pankaj Oswal, recently spoke about her harrowing experience during her illegal detention in Uganda, where she was accused of kidnapping and murdering Mukesh Menaria, a former employee. Despite the eventual revelation of Menaria being safe in Tanzania, Vasundhara faced significant human rights abuses throughout her ordeal and was held without just cause.

Oswal recounted how Ugandan police enforced an unlawful search without a warrant, dismissing her requests by claiming, “We are in Uganda, we can do anything, you’re not in Europe anymore.” After being forcefully taken to an Interpol office, she was coerced into making statements without legal representation. Upon her refusal, a male officer physically carried her to their van.

Subsequently, she was arrested and demanded to pay a USD 30,000 police bond while surrendering her passport, yet this did not secure her release, prolonging her detention. At a lower magistrate court, she was charged with attempted murder, despite this not being permissible under the law. Vasundhara was then transferred to Nakasongola prison, known for housing serious offenders, where she remained for two weeks.

During her imprisonment, the situation worsened as attempts to hire legal counsel were thwarted by competitors who allegedly bribed her lawyers to impede her bail applications and court appearances. It was not until October 21, after considerable effort and multiple legal setbacks, that she was finally granted bail, marking an end to an unjust ordeal.

Vasundhara Oswal’s account sheds light on serious human rights violations during her wrongful detention in Uganda, following unfounded accusations of serious crimes. Despite overcoming significant legal and bureaucratic hurdles, Oswal’s experience underscores the challenges faced by individuals in foreign jurisdictions and the importance of legal representation. Notably, the case exemplifies how corruption can obstruct justice, further jeopardizing the rights of vulnerable individuals.

Original Source: news.abplive.com