THIS is with reference to the report ‘Missing toddler found murdered in Rawalpindi’ (June 6). I was shocked by this horrifying news about the murder of one-year-old Maryam whose body was found in a sewage drain in Rawalpindi. Even more shocking was the news that a 10-year-old relative, Azan Sultan, had confessed to the murder. This has under-scored several issues that need immediate attention.

This tragic, unfortunmate event not only reveals significant failures with respect to child safety and supervision, it raises serious concerns about the mental and emotional health of our children.

It is alarming and deeply tragic that a young boy could allegedly commit such a violent act based on personal likes or dislikes. The said report quoted the police investigating officer as saying that the boy had murdered the girl only because he ‘did not like her’. This situation highlights the critical need for psychological support, emotional education and heightened awareness within families and schools.

Besides, it is essential that the authorities ensure justice for the aggrieved family while treating the case with the appro-

priate sensitivity and care, especially considering the young age of the accused whose father is an addict and his mother is living away from him with her parents.

The relevant agencies, educators, community leaders and parents should take this incident as a wake-up call.

We must join forces to create a safer and more emotionally nurturing environment for our children. Let this tragedy serve as a catalyst for some meaningful change.

Hira Jiskani
Karachi

Published in Dawn, June 21st, 2025