Minor domestic worker rescued in Lahore after abuse by doctor couple

The Child Protection and Welfare Bureau in Lahore has rescued a 12-year-old domestic worker, Gulnaz, from a house in the Walton area where she was allegedly subjected to severe physical abuse, it emerged on Monday. 

According to the CPWB, the minor girl was recovered last night and presented before the Bureau’s Special Magistrate on Monday.

On the magistrate’s orders, she was admitted at Mayo Hospital, where she is said to be in critical condition.

No formal case has been registered against the couple thus far. They are accused of routinely beating the minor domestic worker and subjecting her two torture since employing her two years ago.

An FIR will be registered against the couple, who both serve as doctors at separate government hospitals, once the medical report is received, said CPWB officials. 

CPWB Chairperson Sarah Ahmad said action was taken immediately after a complaint was recieved on their helpline against the doctor couple. The girl bore visible signs of torture on her head, arms, legs and other body parts, added Ahmad. 

Read: Child abuse cases soar in five years

Sources within the Child Protection Bureau revealed that the child’s condition remains unstable, and she has been unable to provide accurate details about her parents. Preliminary investigation suggests that she is a resident of Dera Ghazi Khan district, though her identity is yet to be confirmed.

Ahmad condemned the incident as a grave violation of child rights, vowing strict legal action against the accused doctor and his wife.

She emphasized that the Punjab government is enforcing a zero-tolerance policy against child abuse and that no leniency will be shown to those involved in such crimes.

According to the Bureau, efforts are being made to gather details about the girl’s family. Once their information is obtained, the Bureau will contact them and utilize all available resources to ensure that the girl receives justice.