Recent reports of a sexual assault involving a female student at a private college in Lahore have sparked widespread protests and social media uproar. However, the girl’s father has publicly dismissed these allegations, asserting that his daughter’s injuries were unrelated to any assault.
Family’s Statement
In a press conference held alongside Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shehrbano Naqvi, the father clarified that his daughter had suffered a back injury after slipping at home, which required her hospitalization in the ICU. He expressed confusion over the protests and viral videos circulating online, stating that the family has no connection to the demonstrations taking place in their daughter’s name. “Anyone with daughters can understand our pain,” he remarked, emphasizing the family’s desire to distance themselves from the ongoing unrest.
Police Response
ASP Shehrbano Naqvi urged the public to refrain from spreading misinformation that could further distress the family. She explained that if a legitimate incident of assault had occurred, the police would have initiated a case based on concrete evidence. Naqvi underscored the importance of verifying information before reporting and cautioned against the potential consequences of baseless rumors, which could lead to unnecessary law and order issues.
Investigation and Official Actions
In light of the escalating situation, which included clashes between student protesters and law enforcement, authorities swiftly arrested a security guard implicated in the alleged assault. The police have reviewed CCTV footage from the college but have not found credible evidence to support the claims of assault.
Chief Minister’s Inquiry
Responding to the public outcry, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has established a seven-member committee to investigate the allegations thoroughly. Chaired by Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman, this committee is tasked with delivering its findings to the Chief Minister within 48 hours.
As the investigation unfolds, the emphasis remains on ensuring justice and clarity in this sensitive matter. The situation highlights the critical need for accurate reporting and responsible discourse surrounding issues of safety and women’s rights in educational institutions.
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