LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) has constituted a full bench to address cases of harassment involving female students at educational institutions across Punjab.
LHC Chief Justice Aaliya Neelum voiced concern over the escalating situation in the province, particularly following protests over the alleged rape of a female college student in Lahore. She stressed the gravity of the issue, given the ongoing unrest.
The controversy surrounding the alleged rape at a private college in Lahore has triggered widespread and violent protests across Punjab. As a result, nearly 400 individuals protesting against sexual abuse and harassment in educational institutions have been arrested in Rawalpindi alone, with Section 144 imposed across the province to prevent large gatherings and demonstrations. Similar actions have been taken in Lahore and other cities, with many individuals booked for violating Section 144. In light of the unrest, all private and public schools, colleges, and universities in Punjab remained closed.
The LHC took up three separate cases, including the protests related to the alleged rape, a suicide case at Punjab University, and a harassment complaint at Lahore College for Women University (LCWU). During the hearing, Punjab Inspector General of Police Usman Anwer presented a detailed report requested by the court.
Chief Justice Neelum criticized the police for their failure to control the situation, particularly their inability to prevent videos of the incidents from circulating on social media. She questioned the delay in reaching out to relevant authorities to curb the viral content.
IGP Anwer informed the court that the police had contacted the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, while Punjab’s advocate general reported that an assistant superintendent had met the family of the student involved in the alleged rape case and reviewed CCTV footage. He admitted, however, that authorities had not effectively managed the situation.
The Chief Justice expressed regret that opportunists had exploited the unrest, noting that if the allegations were based on false information, it was a tragic outcome. She also inquired about the harassment complaint at LCWU, to which the college’s registrar responded that there was one formal complaint, and the accused had been suspended.
CJ Neelum directed officials to restore the confidence of parents and ensure that students feel safe returning to their institutions. She also ordered that no men should be present in areas where female students are active in educational institutes.
Additionally, the court instructed authorities to take the statement of the girl involved in the alleged rape case, cautioning against pressuring her. A committee, led by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Director General, was formed to investigate the three cases.
The turmoil has led to protests, including incidents of students storming a hostel, throwing stones, and damaging vehicles. In response, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced a crackdown on those spreading misinformation about the alleged rape incident.
