LAHORE – Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) President Mian Abuzar Shad has urged the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the Chief Minister of Punjab to take strong action against heinous crimes, particularly sexual assault, by introducing legislation that ensures speedy justice.
Shad said Pakistan was required to adopt a zero-tolerance policy on such offenses, taking inspiration from countries where justice is delivered swiftly.
Citing an example from China, Mian Abuzar Shad said an incident where a sexual assault case was resolved within three hours. He said that in a notable case from Beijing, when a young girl was assaulted, the authorities acted immediately, apprehending the suspect and delivering justice within a few hours. It’s this kind of swift justice that serves as a deterrent against such crimes and provides relief to the victims. Shad stressed such practices have played a crucial role in China’s journey to becoming one of the most progressive nations in the world.
He also cited an incident in Saudi Arabia where seven young men were found guilty of raping and murdering a 16-year-old girl. After their arrest and investigation, they were swiftly tried and given the harsh punishment they deserved. In a notable move, the court ordered that the sentence be filmed and widely shared on social media to serve as a warning, ensuring that such crimes are not only punished but also deterred in the future.
Mian Abuzar Shad lamented the current justice system in Pakistan, highlighting the delays and inefficiencies that often leave victims waiting for years. “We are a country founded in the name of Islam, which teaches justice and fairness, yet our processes are slowed down by red tape and delays. Instead of action, we see only condemnations, committees, and recommendations, while the cries of the oppressed go unheard,” he criticized.
He urged the provincial and federal governments to pass legislation that ensures prompt trials and immediate punishment for offenders, especially in cases involving crimes against women and children. He emphasized, “If we want to create a society where women and children feel secure, we have to ensure that those who commit such despicable acts are brought to justice without delay. A strong message must be sent to potential offenders which the state will not tolerate any attack on the dignity and safety of its citizens.”
He also appealed to the business community and civil society to join hands in advocating for stricter laws and a reformed justice system. He concluded that it’s high time the society rise above mere slogans and take real action to make Pakistan a safer place for all. The government have to play its part in ensuring that no victim’s voice is silenced, and justice is served promptly.”
His statement has been met with widespread support from various business leaders and community members, who agree that only through such changes can Pakistan hope to tackle the rising incidents of crime and build a society based on the principles of justice and fairness.
