Child maid tortured by employers

Maid endured regular abuse

LAHORE:

A 10-year-old maid faced torture at the hands of her employers in Johar Town.

Gulnaz Fatima, employed at the residence of Javed Iqbal, endured regular abuse, as alleged by the victim herself. However, matters escalated when she dared to eat without prior permission, that enraged Iqbal’s wife, Rubab.

The consequence was a brutal assault with clubs and fists, leaving her with serious injuries.

Nearby residents intervened and alerted the police, leading to the immediate arrest of the suspects and the initiation of a case against them. The Child Protection and Welfare Bureau (CP&WB) stepped in, taking custody of Gulnaz to ensure her safety and well-being.

CP&WB Chairperson Sarah Ahmad confirmed that the victim bore visible marks of torture on her face and body, emphasising that she would be provided with comprehensive protection and support.

Despite increased awareness campaigns against the employment of children as domestic labour and legislative measures treating such cases as trafficking in persons offenses, instances of child labour exploitation persist unabated.

In an incident in November 2023, a minor girl faced torture in Garhi Shahu, Lahore. Allegedly, the female employer not only subjected the victim to severe physical abuse but also shaved her head.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 15^th 2024.