LAHORE/ISLAMABAD: The Lahore High Court has dismissed the pre-arrest bail of a man who is suspected of kidnapping a 14-year-old girl and subsequently raping her.
Furthermore, the court has issued orders to implement substantial measures aimed at preventing child marriages.
Justice Anwaarul Haq Pannu has issued a detailed 22-page judgment regarding this case.
However, the court has directed the Punjab IGP, the Punjab prosecutor general, and the local government director to receive a copy of the judgment.
In terms of action, the Lahore High Court has mandated that the prosecutor general, with the assistance of the Punjab police chief, develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) concerning early child marriages.
Additionally, the court has instructed the enforcement of concrete measures to thwart child marriages.
As indicated by medical professionals, the abducted girl’s age is approximately 13 or 14 years old, as outlined in the verdict. The suspect, on the other hand, claims to have married the girl and denies abducting her.
The verdict notes that the suspect has violated the Child Marriage Restraint Act of 1929. It further emphasizes that prior to entering into marriage, the suspect was legally bound to adhere to Pakistani laws.
The victim herself has provided a statement detailing the abduction and rape by the suspect. The court’s verdict confirms the suspect’s guilt based on evidence from the police investigation.
The suspect in question is facing charges under various legal provisions, including those related to kidnapping and rape. These charges were filed against him in Sargodha
