KARACHI:
Pakistan’s past history is a testimony to the fact that the criminal laws have constantly been misused to an extent that even unproven and unverified allegations have led to vigilant murders and mob lynchings. Sadly, such corrupt practices have claimed many innocent lives and there is not much we can do to stop it. Multiple cases of forced conversions, honour killings and gang rapes prove that women and minorities remain the most vulnerable in Pakistan. This is because the state has failed to protect their rights.
Critics have argued that the recent rise in the rate of crime has occurred because our justice system does not deliver justice on time, which subsequently gives rise to further mistrust between the public and state institutions. The situation is so severe that mob violence is slowly becoming the norm; violent protests are not condemned, rather they are encouraged; and killings have become a common ordeal. Women are kidnapped in broad day-light while the body of children are found from dumpsters and garbage cans. The country is slowly falling into the pit of evil, perpetuated through rampant corruption and lack of accountability means that such practise will continue unabated.
Extreme inequality coupled with the rise of mental illness has caused many to resort to such practices in order to feel a sense of sanity. The elite need to be aware of the monsters they are creating.
M Shahjahan Memon
Qamber Ali Khan
Published in The Express Tribune, September 26th, 2020.
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