Crackdown on employing underage maids likely

Search operation will be carried out at spiritual leaders’ residences

KARACHI:

Caretaker Sindh Home Minister, Brig (R) Haris Nawaz, has announced a comprehensive search operation in the residences of Pirs [spiritual leaders] and self-proclaimed saints following the brutal murder of a housemaid after she was subjected to sexual abuse.

The operation aims to uncover any instances of employing underage girls as domestic workers. If such employment is discovered, it will result in legal action, including the filing of a First Information Report (FIR).

Speaking at a press conference, the home minister further disclosed that a targeted operation against dacoits in Kutcha areas will also commence.

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Furthermore, the government remains resolute in its commitment to maintain law and order, vowing to apprehend those who disrupt it through protests.

In this regard, the provincial government has been in contact with Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) for assistance, the minister said.

Nawaz reiterated the government’s dedication to addressing the Ranipur issue and ensuring justice for the affected family.

Regarding the Ranipur Haveli case, he revealed that Asad Shah and his driver, along with other involved individuals, have been taken into custody. However, Bibi Hina is currently out on bail.

Haris Nawaz stressed the government’s serious concerns regarding the employment of underage girls in households and announced an upcoming search operation targeting households employing domestic workers in this manner.

He also noted that the operation against Kutcha dacoits is in the planning stage and awaits the necessary changes in the postings and transfers of police officers, subject to prior approval from the ECP.

The caretaker minister added that individuals involved in arson during strikes have been apprehended, and the government continues to work on maintaining law and order, in coordination with JI.

Present on the occasion, Caretaker Minister for Law Umar Soomro underscored the government’s commitment to implementing existing laws and addressing the Ranipur incident.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 3^rd, 2023.