Lahore High Court Takes Action on Harassment Cases
The Lahore High Court (LHC) in Pakistan has formed a full court bench to address incidents of harassment involving female students. Chief Justice Aalia Neelum has instructed authorities to gather statements from victims linked to a rape claim in Lahore, which has led to ongoing protests.
Protests and Arrests
Protests against harassment and sexual abuse have resulted in the arrest of around 400 individuals in Rawalpindi, with many more booked in Lahore and other cities. Section 144, which bans gatherings, has been imposed, leading to the closure of educational institutions across Punjab.
Incidents Under Investigation
The LHC is examining three incidents: the protests over the alleged rape, a suicide at Punjab University, and harassment at Lahore College of Women University. Punjab Inspector General of Police Usman Anwer presented a report to the court, but Chief Justice Neelum criticized the police for not controlling the spread of viral videos and the protests.
Measures and Orders
Chief Justice Neelum has ordered the prohibition of men in areas with female students and emphasized the importance of not pressuring the alleged rape victim. A committee led by the Federal Investigation Agency’s director general will investigate the cases.
Response from Authorities
Protests have escalated, with students damaging property. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced a crackdown on those spreading false information about the rape case.
Doubts Revealed
Lahore High Court -: The Lahore High Court is a big court in Lahore, Pakistan, where important legal cases are decided. It’s like a place where judges work to make sure rules are followed.
Full Bench -: A full bench means a group of several judges who come together to hear and decide on important cases. It’s like having a team of experts to solve a big problem.
Harassment Cases -: Harassment cases involve situations where someone is being bothered or treated badly, often in a way that makes them feel unsafe or uncomfortable. In this context, it refers to female students facing such issues.
Protests -: Protests are when people gather together to show they are unhappy about something and want change. It’s like when people come together to say ‘this is not right’.
Rape Claim -: A rape claim is when someone says they have been forced to do something very bad and hurtful against their will. It’s a very serious accusation that needs careful investigation.
Rawalpindi -: Rawalpindi is a city in Pakistan, near the capital Islamabad. It’s like a big town where many people live and work.
Section 144 -: Section 144 is a rule that can be used to stop people from gathering in large groups in public places. It’s like a temporary law to keep things calm and safe.
Chief Justice Aalia Neelum -: Chief Justice Aalia Neelum is a high-ranking judge in the Lahore High Court. She is responsible for making important decisions in legal cases.
Viral Videos -: Viral videos are videos that become very popular and are shared by many people on the internet. It’s like when a video is watched by lots of people very quickly.
