Rape in the seminary – Daily Times

The idea that at least 12 (conservative estimates) children are sexually abused every day in Pakistan is a harrowing reminder of how badly we have failed our children. We are not concerned that the real number is significantly higher, thanks to the repressive influence of a society that shamelessly insists on making victims pay for their heartbreaking tragedies.

However, it seems that more and more parents have had enough of picking up the broken pieces of their children in deafening silence and are now insisting on inflicting the punishment of the law on those who dared to allow their vile demons to subject defenseless children to unimaginable horrors.

A seminary teacher was arrested by the Muzaffargarh police for allegedly raping two minor students for several months and threatening them with undue consequences after their guardian filed a complaint. The details of the case are nothing short of horrifying and require immediate intervention by the authorities. Justice must not only be done but also visibly done. Law enforcement agencies should investigate the case thoroughly so that the prosecution can ensure that the accused is held accountable for his actions. More importantly, but often ignored, the victims should also be provided with the necessary support to help them cope with the trauma they have endured.

However, it would be a complete delusion to ignore this as an isolated event. Our religious leaders are quick to point out that the crime of one individual should not be used to tarnish the reputation of a most honorable educational institution. The respect enjoyed by the madrasas, which once bore the light of scientific and technological advancement, is undeniable. But can these same leaders deny that just last month in Lower Dir, a seminary director was arrested for his involvement in the assault and murder of a seven-year-old?

Have we forgotten how a seminary teacher and his wife were blamed for repeated rape attempts on an underage girl in Faisalabad? A young boy was thrown from the roof after being raped, another threatened to film the abuse, and countless others still suffer in silence? Are we equipped to defend ourselves? The fact that these crimes are taking place within the confines of a place of education and spiritual guidance is deeply disturbing and only underscores the urgent need for strong measures to protect our children from such perpetrators. We can no longer ignore the big, hairy monster in the room. *