In a heart-wrenching incident, a 12-year-old housemaid was rushed to the hospital in critical condition after enduring alleged brutal torture at the hands of her employers, a husband and wife duo.
The police have detained the couple, along with a woman who brought the young girl to the hospital, for investigation. A team from the Child Protection Bureau (CPB) Rawalpindi has also stepped in to ensure justice for the victim.
The horrific incident unfolded in the Asghar Mall Scheme area, within the jurisdiction of the Bani Police Station. The victim, identified as Iqra, was shifted to the hospital in an unconscious state, where doctors reported severe torture marks on her body. The case came to light when a Quran teacher, who teaches children at home, brought her to the hospital, unable to ignore the child’s deteriorating condition.
Police Action and Investigation
CPO Rawalpindi Khalid Hamdani immediately directed the police to take strict legal action against the accused. Initial investigations revealed that the abuse occurred over several days, leaving the child in a critical state.
The woman who brought the girl to the hospital explained that she acted out of compassion after seeing Iqra’s condition. The girl had been working as a domestic worker at Mian Rashid’s house when the alleged abuse occurred.
The police confirmed that Iqra’s father had recently passed away, leaving her mother in seclusion (Iddat). This tragic turn of events forced Iqra into domestic work, where she became a victim of violence.
Commitment to Justice
CPO Hamdani stated, “Violence against children is absolutely intolerable under any circumstances.” He assured that once the medical report is received, legal action would be taken against the accused, and they would be brought to justice.
Child Protection Bureau Steps In
Chairperson of the Child Protection Bureau, Sara Ahmed, condemned the incident, describing it as “deeply saddening.” A CPB team led by District Officer Rao Khalil Ahmed visited the hospital to gather details and offer support. Sara Ahmed confirmed that Iqra had endured over 12 days of violent abuse, leaving visible signs of torture on her body.
She further stated, “The Child Protection Bureau will take the minor into protective custody and provide her with all possible assistance.” The victim is currently undergoing treatment at Holy Family Hospital.
A Wake-Up Call
This incident sheds light on the plight of vulnerable domestic workers and highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of child protection laws. Authorities have vowed to ensure justice for Iqra, sending a strong message that violence against children will not go unpunished.
Let us hope for Iqra’s recovery and a future where children are safeguarded from such heinous acts.
