KARACHI:
This is in response to the letter ‘seminary rape’ by Malik Tariq Ali. This is not to disagree with the views expressed by the writer. However, I do have some divergent views that I wish to express. I agree that it is the failure and complicity of the police in dealing with rape cases that perpetuate these crimes. However, it is also worth analysing why these crimes have continuously increased since the 1980s.
One of the main reasons that contribute to the high crime rates is the excess population. In low-income families, parents are unable to take care of their children due to various reasons and often send them to work. Statistics have revealed that children from poor families are more prone to all types of abuses, whether it is child labour, sex trafficking, sexual abuse, honour killing or early marriages. Having already been exposed to extreme violence, children are unable to fully comprehend whether what is happening with them is right or not. In addition, low-income families cannot afford to send their children to school. Lack of education further adds to their woes. They are forced into child labour. These children spend much of their time outside their houses from a young age, which exposes them to violence and abuse. Therefore, they are more likely to be subjected to rape and assault.
The government needs to enforce laws prohibiting child labour and make secondary schooling compulsory. In addition, all citizens should consider family planning. The Prime Minister must consider this issue and implement strategic policy to address it. It will not take much longer for the situation to further deteriorate. The government must not turn away from its responsibility to enlighten and educate the masses about this problem.
Ravi Kumar
Hyderabad
Published in The Express Tribune, September 5th, 2021.
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