Pakistani 'fake' rape case sparks outcry over sexual violence: Video
In recent days, Pakistan has witnessed widespread protests from various groups over the surge in sexual violence on university campuses.
Earlier this month, the internet erupted when news broke that a staff member at a Punjab College raped a woman in the campus basement.
This revelation sparked a series of protests, one of which the police forcefully dispersed on Monday, October 21, citing falsehoods.
Despite the police's stance, Pakistan, a patriarchal society, is determined to expose and address the issue of sexual violence, particularly against women.
Senior officer Syeda Shehrbano Naqvi has been tasked with thoroughly investigating the Punjab rape case, which the police are allegedly trying to cover up.
She stated, "All of us have experienced harassment in some form, whether on the streets of Pakistan or elsewhere."
She also urged the relatives of the alleged Punjab University rape victim to come forward with any evidence or information they have.
"We beg the uncle of the alleged victim from the Punjab College rape case to come on camera and give a statement. People tend to believe someone in uniform less than someone directly involved in the incident."
Students participating in the protests indicated that their grievances extend beyond the Punjab case, highlighting the prevalence and seriousness of such incidents nationwide.
"Harassment is widespread on every campus, with rape cases occurring regularly. A student recently committed suicide at Punjab University, and there have been troubling incidents at Bahawalpur University. Numerous cases of harassment and rape have occurred in colleges and universities," said Saqib Ismail, founder of a student committee.
Fatima Razzaq, an Aurat March women's rights group member, added, "Unfortunately, it's pretty common. Students do get sexually violated often, but I haven't seen it grow into a movement like this. And I haven't seen this sort of anger or reaction from them before."
