Afghanistan, Sept. 1 -- A US federal judge has ordered that Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national accused of killing a US National Guard soldier and seriously wounding another, be force-fed and provided medical treatment after months of a hunger strike in federal custody.
According to US court documents, Lakanwal has been on a prolonged hunger strike for several months while in detention and has at times also refused to drink water, raising serious concerns about his health.
US District Judge Amit Mehta ruled that prison authorities may provide involuntary nutrition, hydration and medical care to preserve Lakanwal's life and prevent further deterioration of his condition. The order authorizes force-feeding until he voluntarily resumes ...