The Supreme Court of Pakistan has converted the death sentence of a convict in a child Rape Case into life imprisonment. The case involved the assault of a 10-year-old girl at a school in Sheikhupura.
Justice Salahuddin Panhwar issued the written verdict, explaining the court’s decision. While the death sentence was changed to life imprisonment, the court maintained other punishments awarded to the convict.
According to the ruling, the offender will still have to pay a fine of Rs300,000. The court also upheld an additional six-month prison term. Furthermore, the convict must pay Rs100,000 in compensation to the victim under the Anti-Rape Act.
The Supreme Court stressed that protecting female students in educational institutions is a constitutional duty of the state. The court noted that women and children must be able to travel to and from schools safely without fear of harassment or violence.
In its judgment, the apex court directed all provincial police chiefs and the Islamabad police chief to increase security measures around schools, colleges, and universities. The court ordered law enforcement agencies to enhance patrolling in these areas and respond quickly to complaints involving women and children.
The Rape Case relates to an incident that occurred at a school located in a housing colony in Sheikhupura. A sweeper working at the school was accused of assaulting a 10-year-old student.
The court observed that medical evidence supported the allegations. It noted that injuries and signs of assault were confirmed through medical examinations. The judgment further stated that the absence of semen in the forensic report could not be considered sufficient grounds to dismiss the Rape Case.
The Supreme Court also addressed delays in registering the complaint. It said that any delay or alleged attempts by the school administration to hide the incident should not be used against the victim or her widowed mother.
In addition, the court recommended reforms to strengthen support for victims of sexual violence. It advised both federal and provincial governments to establish modern medico-legal services across the country. The court suggested adopting systems similar to those introduced under the Sindh Medical Legal Act 2023.
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The ruling highlights the importance of victim protection, timely investigations, and stronger safety measures for children in educational institutions across Pakistan.
