GUJRAT (Web Desk) – Police have arrested a man along with two family members after a woman was allegedly subjected to severe physical abuse and had her head forcibly shaved during a domestic dispute in Punjab’s Jalalpur Jattan area, officials said on Tuesday.
The incident has sparked renewed concern over violence against women and prompted senior police officials to order a comprehensive investigation into the allegations.
According to police, the victim was allegedly assaulted inside her home following a family dispute. Investigators said the accused not only physically attacked the woman but also shaved her head, an act authorities described as degrading and intended to humiliate the victim.
District Police Officer (DPO) Akhtar Farooq took notice of the incident soon after it was reported and directed officers to launch an immediate investigation. A special police team was formed to collect evidence, record witness statements and determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault.
A criminal case has been registered at Saddar Police Station in Jalalpur Jattan under relevant provisions of the law. Police confirmed the arrest of the woman’s husband, identified as Siraj Qamar, along with Sughra Bibi and Zain Islam, who are also accused of involvement in the incident.
Investigators said all three suspects remain in police custody while further inquiries continue. Authorities are examining whether additional individuals participated in or facilitated the alleged assault.
Police officials stated that forensic and medical evidence is being collected to strengthen the investigation. Statements from the victim, witnesses and family members are also being recorded as part of the legal process.
DPO Akhtar Farooq said violence against women would not be tolerated and assured that strict legal action would be taken against anyone found responsible. He emphasized that law enforcement agencies remain committed to protecting vulnerable members of society and ensuring justice for victims of abuse.
The incident has once again highlighted the continuing challenge of domestic violence in Pakistan, where women are sometimes subjected to physical abuse, intimidation and humiliation during family disputes.
Human rights advocates have repeatedly called for stronger enforcement of laws protecting women, arguing that many victims hesitate to report abuse due to social pressure, fear of retaliation or financial dependence on family members.
Legal experts note that acts intended to publicly humiliate victims, including forcibly shaving their heads, have been reported in various parts of the country over the years. Such incidents are often linked to personal disputes, family conflicts or attempts to impose informal punishments outside the legal system.
Police records show similar cases have previously been reported in Punjab. In one incident in Pakpattan, a young man reportedly had his head shaved after being accused of attempting to meet a woman. In another case in Chakwal, an elderly woman was allegedly assaulted and had her hair cut following a dispute involving her son’s intended marriage.
Authorities say these incidents demonstrate the importance of strengthening legal protections and ensuring swift action against those responsible for violence and intimidation.
Women’s rights organizations have urged communities to reject practices that degrade or abuse women, stressing that domestic disputes should be resolved through lawful means rather than violence.
Experts also emphasize the need for greater public awareness regarding legal protections available to victims of domestic abuse. They argue that timely reporting, effective police response and prompt judicial proceedings are essential for preventing repeated incidents.
Punjab Police have encouraged citizens to report cases of domestic violence immediately so authorities can intervene before situations escalate further. Officials say protecting victims and holding offenders accountable remain among their highest priorities.
As the investigation in the Gujrat case continues, police say additional evidence will determine the next stage of legal proceedings. The suspects are expected to remain in custody while investigators complete the inquiry and present their findings before the court.
The latest incident has renewed calls for stronger action against domestic violence, with authorities reaffirming their commitment to enforcing the law and ensuring that those responsible for crimes against women face justice through the country’s legal system.
