Justice Denied: HRCP condemns Supreme Court verdict

HRCP expresses disappointment at SC verdict in Mukhtaran Mai rape case.

LAHORE:

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed disappointment at the Supreme Court’s verdict in the Mukhtaran Mai rape case.

“The decision will add to difficulties that rape victims face in bringing their tormentors to justice,” said a HRCP statement issued on Friday.

The Supreme Court, on Thursday, acquitted five of the six accused men in the case, prompting widespread condemnation from civil society circles and the people at large. “It is utterly disappointing that insufficient police investigation and a delay in registering a case with the police have been made the basis for acquittal of the accused,” the statement reads.

The HRCP says it has serious concerns that courts lack the capacity and the sensitivity to properly appraise evidence in rape cases. HRCP has also expressed serious concern over Mukhtaran Mai’s safety and has urged the government to see to it that adequate steps are taken to ensure that she is not harmed.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 23^rd, 2011.