Blackmailing the victims? Reversal in Usman Mirza case irks Twitter

The couple in their written affidavit told the trial court that they did not want to pursue the case


Entertainment Desk January 12, 2022

In July, a video of a couple being harassed and assaulted went viral on social media. The prime accused, identified as Usman Mirza, and his accomplices were taken into custody after the horrific video of the assault made rounds. The legal proceedings have since begun, with Mirza in custody. 

However, in a new development, the victims in the couple harassment case on Tuesday retracted their statement against the accused including Usman, the main suspect. The couple in their written affidavit told the trial court that they did not want to pursue the case against the main accused Usman Mirza and co-accused Hafiz Ataur Rehman, Adaras Qayyum Butt, Rehan, Umar Bilal Marwat, Mohib Bangash and Farhan Shaheen.

Soon after the news broke, many took to social media and expressed disappointment over the retraction of statements. Some Twitter users opined that blackmailing the victims is a common occurrence and the state should play a party in the case now, in order for the couple to get justice. 

A user commented how the viral video should be enough evidence to punish Mirza. 

Some users pointed out why it's understandable that the couple retracted their charges. 

Some shared how the thought of Mirza walking free would be a failure of the system. 

One user commented how the judiciary is at fault. 

However, in response to the same, one shared how no witness can be 'compelled to give evidence.'

Many users commented how the Usman Mirza case is an example of how power comes into play. 

The accused had been booked and charge-sheeted after they were arrested for stripping the couple naked, torturing them in Sector E-11 of Islamabad and later uploading their video on social media in July last year.

When Additional District and Sessions Judge Atta Rabbani took up the case for hearing, Usman Mirza and the other accused were produced before the court.

During the hearing the victims, Sundas and Asad Raza, also appeared but refused to identify the main accused Usman Mirza and other accused. They said that the whole case was prepared by the police and they submitted the affidavit to the court on their behalf.

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below. 

COMMENTS

Replying to X

Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.

For more information, please see our Comments FAQ