Alleged Sexual Abuse
A disturbing incident has come to light in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Haripur area, where a madressah teacher was arrested for allegedly sexually abusing a visually impaired five-year-old child. The Haripur police took swift action, apprehending the suspect under the supervision of DSP Muhammad Arif and SHO Inspector Akhtar Hussain.
The incident was reported on July 10, when the victim’s uncle filed a First Information Report (FIR) at Saddar police station. According to the FIR, the child confided in their mother about the abuse, which allegedly occurred in the teacher’s room at the mosque. The complainant demanded legal action against the suspect, and the police registered a case under Section 376 of the Pakistan Penal Code (rape) and Section 53 of the KP Child Protection Act (sexual abuse).
This heinous act highlights the vulnerability of children, particularly those with disabilities. The visually impaired child, just five years old, was subjected to unimaginable trauma. The police investigation is ongoing, and it is imperative that justice is served.
Child Abuse Statistics:
A recent report by Sahil, “Cruel Numbers 2024,” sheds light on the alarming rate of child abuse in Pakistan. According to the report, 3,364 child abuse cases were reported from all four provinces, the Islamabad Capital Territory, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan in 2024. This data was collected from 81 national and regional newspapers across the country, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and action to protect children.
Importance of Awareness:
Cases like these underscore the importance of creating a safe environment for children. Educational institutions and communities must prioritize child safety and well-being. It is crucial for parents, teachers, and authorities to be vigilant and report any suspicious behavior.
Action Required:
We urge the public to report any incidents of child abuse to the authorities immediately. Together, we can work towards creating a society where children feel safe and protected. The Haripur police’s swift action in this case is commendable, and we hope that justice will be served.
