Utter silence prevails everywhere. The government authorities, the NGOs, the media have kept mum, as if nothing had happened. The case of gang-rape and murder of first year student at Punjab Girls College Lahore has perhaps been closed. How easily, this nation forgets such tragic incidents? 

The tragic case of a girl who died after experiencing sexual abuse had sparked outrage and called for justice in Punjab and beyond, but after frequently changed statement from college authorities, police and other circles, finally, a news appeared in media that the ‘Parents of the victim say that the girl had collapsed from the stairs, and nothing like rape had happened.’ Such kind of statement by the parents after several days is manifestation of how the helpless parents are silenced exerting the pressures.    

Such incidents highlight the urgent need for systemic changes to address sexual violence, ensure accountability, and support victims. It is crucial for law enforcement and judicial systems to respond swiftly and effectively to such crimes, and for communities to work together to create safe environments for all individuals. Advocacy for stronger laws and better support services for victims is vital in preventing future incidents and ensuring justice is served. Public awareness and education are also key components in addressing the root causes of such violence.

Read – Rape and Murder cases: Has Justice System Failed?

This incident happened in Punjab Girls College (PGC) campus 11, where a security guard, reportedly a retired military personnel, sexually assaulted a girl with the help of a van driver. Firstly the van driver stopped the girl and said he wanted to talk to her about her fees. A teacher listened to her cry and went to help her. She was only a 17 year old student of 1st year. The college authorities tried from the very first day to protect their reputation, and all people working in PGC were trying to save themselves denying the facts, but it’s a real case.

Boys were protesting and helping the girls, but they were unable to get justice. The police were beating and arresting them for protesting and trying to seek justice.

The people are very disappointed by the government because the rich people can buy the government. Even the victim’s family members were missing for several days. What a country this is, where seeking justice is treated as a ‘big sin’?

Read: A woman is raped every two hours in Pakistan

Some questions arise in the mind in such a situation: Why they tried to protect and support a guard? Why they did not show the CCTV footage? Why did the principal run from the backside of college? Why they forced and locked the students in the classroom?

Aroush Salahuddin

Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan  

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