Thu Oct 17 18:28:06 UTC 2024: ## Swiss Industrialist Alleges Daughter’s Illegal Imprisonment in Uganda

**Kampala, Uganda** – Renowned Swiss industrialist of Indian origin, Pankaj Oswal, has publicly accused Ugandan authorities of illegally imprisoning his 26-year-old daughter, Vasundhara Oswal. In an open letter addressed to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, Oswal alleges that Vasundhara, executive director of PRO Industries, has been detained without trial since October 1st, 2023.

Oswal claims the charges against his daughter stem from a $200,000 loan taken by a former employee of PRO Industries, for which the Oswal family acted as guarantors. After refusing to repay the loan, the employee was apprehended in Tanzania with evidence of theft. Despite this, Vasundhara has been accused of wrongdoing, and the legal process has allegedly been manipulated against her.

Oswal highlights that Vasundhara was interrogated under degrading conditions for over 90 hours without access to legal counsel or family. Despite a court order for her unconditional release, additional charges were reportedly filed to prevent her release on bail.

“Vasundhara was detained, interrogated under degrading conditions, and held for over 90 hours without access to legal counsel, family, or basic rights,” the Oswal family stated. “She was paraded as a suspect, stripped of her dignity, and isolated in prison despite her medical condition.”

Vasundhara’s mother, Radhika Oswal, expressed her profound distress. “This is every mother’s nightmare,” she said. “My young daughter has been thrown into a foreign jail. She has been stripped of her basic human rights and her dignity. Vasundhara is an innocent bystander. All I want is her safety, and for her to be back in my arms.”

Oswal has filed an urgent appeal with the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, demanding Vasundhara’s immediate release. Vasundhara, known for her contributions to PRO Industries, is recognized for her work in expansion projects, debt reduction, and sustainability initiatives.

The international community is closely monitoring this case, with calls for a transparent and fair investigation into Vasundhara Oswal’s detention.

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