ON the day the Delhi rapists were sentenced, we were alerted to a similar, in some ways even more sickening, crime: the rape of a five-year-old child, kidnapped along with her three-year-old cousin the previous evening from outside her home in Lahore and then left unconscious outside a hospital. The degree of brutality is horrifying, and the reminder that rape remains as much of a problem in Pakistan as ever could not have taken a worse form. The agony of the child and her family don’t bear thinking of. Even so, the country’s electronic news media — which is fast becoming deserving of the label of ethical bankruptcy — found a way to compound the tragedy: some channels didn’t see fit to expend any thought on concerns for the child’s privacy and dignity. Cameras intruded as she was rushed into the operation theatre, photographs of her during happier moments were displayed and her name was disclosed. What, we are left wondering, will it take to have the media industry clean up its act?

Meanwhile, police in Lahore have reportedly apprehended some suspects. It is vital that the investigation be thorough and fast, and those responsible be made to answer for their deed — the heinousness of the crime demands it. Further, Pakistan must make a consolidated effort to address the problem of rape. The figures are already high, and even then women’s rights’ organisations estimate that far too many incidents go unreported. In a country where patriarchy and gender discrimination are woven into the very fabric of society, as well as of the police and court systems, public demand can help. It was the people’s protest that spurred India to toughen its rape-related laws; here, it can help stir a sluggish state into a concerted push to counter rape.

Opinion

Editorial

IMF chief’s advice
Updated 23 Sep, 2023

IMF chief’s advice

Pakistan's prolonged fiscal deficit, surpassing 7pc, stems from the government's reluctance to widen the tax base.
No closure
Updated 23 Sep, 2023

No closure

WHAT is a Pakistani life worth in the eyes of the state? Clearly not enough, if one were to draw a comparison with...
Missing footballers
23 Sep, 2023

Missing footballers

IN the nation’s living memory, Balochistan’s burns have never run dry. The province has grappled with historical...
Lawless city
22 Sep, 2023

Lawless city

A GRIM milestone has just been passed in Karachi. The recent death of a teenage robbery victim brings the number of...
Another Sharif trip
22 Sep, 2023

Another Sharif trip

THE sudden arrival of former prime minister Shehbaz Sharif in London, a mere 48 hours after he touched down in...
Delayed elections
Updated 22 Sep, 2023

Delayed elections

If ECP wishes to affirm that it is serious, it should start moving on all pending matters so that the possibility of any further delay is minimised.