This is an attack on a woman's dignity'

Judge cites risk of intimidation, calls for justice in assault case as victim shows injuries

KARACHI:

A Karachi court has rejected bail for two men accused of breaking into a woman's home, stripping her, and assaulting her. In a strongly worded order, the judge declared the incident not a mere altercation, but "an attack on the dignity of a woman," warning that granting bail could embolden the accused to intimidate the survivour.

The decision was announced by Judicial Magistrate (West) Inamullah Phulpoto, who denied bail to the two accused, Shaheen and Yousuf, in the case involving serious assault and violation of a woman's dignity.

In the written order, the court observed that the argument of a "false case" has become overly common and unconvincing. The medical report confirms that the woman was subjected to violence, and torn clothing collected by the police further supports the allegations.

"This is not a petty dispute but an attack on the dignity of a woman," the judge said. "Granting bail at this stage could lead to the victim being threatened or intimidated."

Citing the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, the court noted that 70 per cent of women who file such complaints later withdraw due to fear and pressure. The judge further remarked, "the woman showed her injuries; now it is the court's responsibility to ensure justice. The strength of a nation lies not in its wealth, but in the respect it gives to its women."

According to the FIR, the incident occurred when the complainant asked suspect Shaheen to stop engaging in inappropriate behaviour outside her house. In response, he and other suspects allegedly stormed into her home and assaulted her.

The defence claimed that the suspects had been falsely implicated, while the prosecution argued that a case was registered at Docks Police Station following court orders.