SAHIWAL, Pakistan: In a landmark judgment, the Additional Session Court in Sahiwal has sentenced Muhammad Bota to life imprisonment after he was found guilty of kidnapping and brutally sexually assaulting an eight-year-old Christian girl.
The September 2nd, 2021, incident happened, and the first information report under Section 376 was registered against Muhammad Bota.
The incident shocked the community and raised concerns about child safety and protection in Pakistan.
The victim, Liza, was subjected to a horrifying ordeal when she was viciously raped and brutally beaten by Muhammad Bota, a Muslim man living in her neighborhood. She was immediately rushed to DHQ Hospital in Sahiwal, where she received intensive medical care for the traumatic injuries inflicted upon her by the perpetrator.
Medical reports confirmed the heinous nature of the assault, leaving no doubt about the guilt of Muhammad Bota.
Following the incident, a case was registered against Muhammad Bota under Section 376 (punishment for rape) of the Pakistan Penal Code.
The law enforcement authorities launched a search operation and apprehended the fugitive in another city. The diligent efforts of the police and legal representatives paved the way for justice to be served.
The court proceedings included compelling arguments from Liza’s lawyer, Oscar Parkash, who presented the medical report as crucial evidence of the brutal rape. The irrefutable evidence led to the conviction of Muhammad Bota, who was subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment.
Joseph Jansen, a human rights activist, who has been advocating for Liza’s case for the past three years, commended the court’s decision. He emphasized the significance of such verdicts in deterring child abuse and setting a precedent for justice in Pakistan.
“Sexually based crimes are considered especially heinous, and when committed against a child, they demand full legal remedies to protect the vulnerable. This decision sends a strong message against child abuse,” stated Joseph Jansen.
Ashiknaz Khokhar, representative of Voice for Justice, expressed deep concern for Liza’s wellbeing. The young child has been traumatized by the incident and is currently under the care of psychologists and medical professionals to aid in her healing process. It is expected that recovery will be a lengthy journey, leaving both physical and emotional scars on this innocent child.
Nadia Stephen, a women’s rights activist, highlighted the pressing need to address human rights violations in Pakistan, particularly cases involving rape of minors, forced religious conversions, and blasphemy.
Stephen urged activists to unite their voices in raising awareness and condemning such acts to foster a healthy society and promote human rights in Pakistan.
This landmark judgment in the case of Muhammad Bota serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the rights and well-being of children. The verdict emphasizes that perpetrators of heinous crimes against minors will face severe consequences, demonstrating the commitment of the Pakistani legal system to protect the most vulnerable members of society.
