A 12-year-old domestic worker has died in Sheikhupura after an alleged assault by her employer, while another young girl suffered serious injuries in a separate case. Police have launched investigations into both incidents, which have raised fresh concerns about violence against child domestic workers.
The first incident involved Zainab, who allegedly suffered fatal injuries at a house on Khalid Road within the jurisdiction of A Division police station. Meanwhile, a nine-year-old girl, Iman Fatima, reportedly sustained a fractured arm after an alleged assault in Gujjar Town.
What Happened to 12-Year-Old Zainab?
According to Zainab’s mother, her daughter had worked at the home of a woman named Farhanda for approximately 18 months. The family received a monthly salary of Rs4,000 for the girl’s domestic work.
The mother said Farhanda contacted her after 10pm on the night of the incident. She reportedly claimed that Zainab was unwell and asked her to come immediately without bringing anyone along.
However, the mother said she could not afford the Rs100 rickshaw fare. Consequently, she walked for nearly two hours to reach the house.
She also alleged that Farhanda repeatedly refused to let her speak to her daughter over the phone. When she finally reached the house, she found Zainab lying on the floor, with a wooden stick nearby.
According to the mother, Farhanda and her son were absent when she arrived. Her brother subsequently contacted the police, who collected evidence and transferred the body to a hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Police have named Farhanda, her son Ali Haider, and her husband, Riffaqat, in the case. Moreover, Riffaqat has been arrested following intervention by Sheikhupura District Police Officer Bilal Zafar Sheikh.
Zainab’s father died six months ago, leaving her mother to work at a brick kiln. The family’s financial difficulties had forced the young girl to work as a domestic helper, her mother said.
Nine-Year-Old Girl Suffers Fractured Arm in Separate Incident
In another incident reported two days earlier, nine-year-old Iman Fatima allegedly suffered a fractured arm following an assault in Gujjar Town. The incident occurred within the jurisdiction of Sadar police station.
In a video statement, Iman alleged that her employer repeatedly applied a heated metal rod to sensitive parts of her body. She said neighbours heard her screams, intervened and helped rescue her.
According to sources, the woman, identified as Zunaira, and her husband, Waris, both work for the police department. Authorities have registered a case and initiated legal proceedings against the suspects.
Police Launch Investigation Into Both Cases
District Police Officer Bilal Zafar Sheikh has taken notice of the incidents and ordered further action. He also formed an investigation team under the supervision of the SP Investigation.
Police said they would proceed according to the post-mortem report and available evidence. Furthermore, the DPO assured that authorities would take strict legal action against the suspects without showing leniency.
Advocate High Court Hamid Khan described the Sheikhupura domestic worker violence case as the second such incident reported in the city within days.
He argued that weak law enforcement, delays in justice and influential individuals escaping punishment contribute to the persistence of such crimes. Therefore, he urged the state to take strict measures to prevent violence and ensure accountability.
The investigations into both incidents are ongoing, with police expected to take further action based on the available evidence and medical findings.
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