An uproar has erupted following accusations against a private Girls’ hostel in Johar Town, Lahore, for allegedly clandestinely recording its residents in the washroom, igniting concerns about the safety of women residing in such accommodations.
The issue came to public attention when a student’s uncle lodged a complaint with the Johar Town police station, alleging the installation of a hidden camera in the washroom of Ghazal Hostel.
The camera purportedly placed by the hostel administration was allegedly intended to covertly capture residents while bathing.
As a result of the complaint, a case was filed against seven individuals, including hostel owners Salim and Fouzia Salim, along with various staff members.
Upon learning of the police investigation, the accused, namely Saqib from Vehari, Tayyab Shahzad from Sheikhupura, Muhammad Zubair from Jhang, Irfan from Pakpattan, and Ali Hassan from Rahim Yar Khan, absconded.
Housing over 40 female students from different cities in Punjab, the hostel was evacuated by the police following the incident. Currently, interviews with the students are underway, with their statements confirming the existence of the hidden camera.
The incident has evoked widespread condemnation, prompting scrutiny of security protocols at private hostels and calls for more stringent regulations to safeguard the privacy and safety of female residents. The police investigation into the matter is ongoing.
