KARACHI:
A disturbing video circulating on social media shows a car being followed by a barefoot boy, approximately 15 years of age. Tragically, the vehicle strikes the minor, who reportedly succumbs to his injuries at the scene. According to subsequent reports, the incident occurred in Orchard Colony, Multan, and the deceased boy was an orphan who was learning the trade of an electrician under the supervision of the accused. This makes the incident even more heartbreaking. A young life, already deprived of parental protection, has come to a tragic end. No words can adequately express the pain of this tragedy. The incident demands a thorough, impartial investigation, and if criminal liability is established, the law must take its course without fear or favour. It is encouraging that, according to reports, local residents of Orchard Colony apprehended the accused at the scene and that an FIR has subsequently been registered. Nevertheless, reports concerning the treatment of the accused by certain lawyers at the time of his production for remand are equally troubling. The administration of justice must never be replaced by mob justice, personal vengeance or professional misconduct. Whether the act was intentional, reckless, negligent or otherwise criminal is a matter for judicial determination. The accused is entitled to the presumption of innocence and a fair trial, while the deceased child’s family is entitled to justice. These principles are not contradictory; they are the foundations of a civilised legal system. Let the court decide the matter in accordance with the law and the evidence. We must not assume the role of judge, jury, or executioner. Ultimately, this tragedy should compel us to reflect not only on individual responsibility but also on the wider social crisis of intolerance, emotional instability, and the diminishing value we attach to human life. A child’s life has been lost. Let us not lose our humanity in seeking justice for him. Justice must prevail — not through anger, intimidation or public pressure, but through the rule of law, impartial adjudication and respect for human dignity.
Riaz Ali Panhwar
Hyderabad
