Worker assaulted after taking day off in Lahore

A factory worker in Lahore was violently assaulted, allegedly for taking a day off, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for stronger labour protections.

The incident occurred in the Manawan area and came to light after a video circulated on social media showing multiple individuals beating the worker, identified as Aftab.

Aftab was allegedly beaten on Umar’s orders when he returned to help some former colleagues seek work.

Police initially said the victim had withdrawn his complaint after allegedly accepting further payment from the employer. Aftab also reportedly informed police in writing not to pursue the matter.

However, later in the day, SP Cantonment Captain (R) Qazi Ali Raza confirmed that a formal case had been registered against Umar and three unidentified individuals following public outcry and a review of the incident.