In the heart of Hafizabad, Punjab, a tragedy unfolded that has left an indelible scar on a vulnerable young girl and exposed the dark underbelly of child abuse that continues to plague our society. A 14-year-old girl, already struggling with profound cognitive and physical disabilities, has become the victim of an unspeakable crime. This young soul, unable to walk, speak, or hear, was allegedly raped and found to be six months pregnant, a horrifying revelation that would shake any compassionate heart to its core.
The girl, from an underprivileged family that lacks the resources to protect her, was taken to the hospital by her parents, concerned for her health. It was there, during a routine medical examination, that the truth came to light. The child, who had been unable to communicate the atrocities committed against her, was carrying the result of a violent and heinous assault. Her family, illiterate and unaware, had no idea that their daughter was a victim of such a horrific crime.
The police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 376(3) of the Pakistan Penal Code, a law meant to protect those who are most vulnerable—minors and individuals with physical or mental disabilities. This section provides for severe penalties, including life imprisonment and the death penalty, for those convicted of raping such victims. The accused, a man who allegedly discovered the girl alone in the Hussainabad area six months ago, has reportedly fled the scene, disappearing into hiding after committing this ghastly act.
Hafizabad’s District Police Officer, Atif Nazir Kadhar, has taken swift action, ordering a detailed investigation and ensuring that the case receives the attention it deserves. He has directed the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) to submit a report, and police are working to arrest the suspect within 48 hours. Meanwhile, the victim’s family is under police protection, as they attempt to navigate the traumatic aftermath of this vile crime.
Sadly, this case is far from an isolated incident. According to Sahil, an organization dedicated to child protection, the first half of 2024 has seen 1,630 reported cases of child abuse across Pakistan. Of these, 862 were cases of child sexual abuse, 668 of abduction, and 82 of missing children. Sahil’s report sheds light on a grim reality—children, especially girls, continue to be the most vulnerable targets of violence, exploitation, and abuse.
The data further reveals that the most at-risk age group is children aged 6-15, with a staggering 693 cases reported. The majority of abusers were acquaintances of the victims, indicating the pervasive nature of these crimes within families, communities, and close circles.
In addition to child abuse, Sahil’s report highlights the devastating toll of violence against women. In the first half of 2024 alone, 1,732 cases were reported, including rape, murder, honor killings, and other forms of abuse. These numbers are not just statistics—they represent lives torn apart, futures shattered, and families left to cope with unimaginable grief and trauma.
For years, Sahil has been at the forefront of the battle against child sexual abuse, providing critical support to victims and their families. The organization’s work has never been more urgent, as children continue to suffer in silence, their voices drowned out by a society that too often turns a blind eye to their pain. Sahil’s mission is clear: to create a protective environment for children, free from violence, exploitation, and fear.
This case in Hafizabad is a stark reminder of how much work remains to be done. It is a painful and urgent call to action for all of us—government bodies, law enforcement agencies, communities, and individuals—to protect our children and ensure that no more lives are destroyed by such crimes.
We cannot continue to turn a blind eye. Every child deserves to grow up in a world where they are safe, valued, and heard. The time for action is now. Let this tragedy be a turning point in our fight to protect the innocent, and to bring justice to the victims.