Indian-origin entrepreneur files human rights petition in Uganda over alleged illegal detention

PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE

Indian-origin entrepreneur Vasundhara Oswal has filed a human rights petition at the High Court of Uganda alleging unlawful arrest, arbitrary detention, and inhumane treatment linked to an October 2024 investigation, according to court filings.

Oswal, a director at PRO Industries — one of East Africa’s largest bioethanol-producing units — and a director of Oswal Group Global, said she was detained for 21 days despite what the petition describes as a judicial release order and lack of supporting evidence. The petition contends that the law enforcement agency officials misused the criminal justice system and names some officials as well. The filing seeks legal declarations that constitutional rights were violated, alongside compensation and the return of seized assets.

Legal representatives said the case will test judicial accountability and investor protections at a time when economic ties between India and Uganda are expanding, including growing interest from Indian businesses in East Africa’s manufacturing and energy sectors. The petition alleges breaches of constitutional protections, denial of legal access and degrading treatment during detention. International legal counsels stated that the action aims to pursue accountability through judicial channels and reinforce rule-of-law safeguards for both domestic and international investors.

Despite the dispute, Oswal and her family said they remain committed to long-term investment in Uganda’s industrial and renewable energy sectors, expressing confidence in the country’s judicial system. The family has also approached international mechanisms, including the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, seeking review of the case.