Outdated practices

It is observed that the decisions taken under the panchayat system are often inadequate and not suitable with regard to the offence committed. This notion of justice does not conform to the legal setup in the country. It is unfortunate that the country hasn’t succeeded in putting an end to such barbaric practices that are being carried out under the umbrella of the panchayat system, which is still widely accepted as an integral part of local customs and traditions. The Muzaffarabad decision hints at the fact that such systems are operating on a completely different agenda. By giving exemplary punishments, justice system sets  a precedent. These punishments act as deterrent that stops people from committed unlawful acts.

However, the recent decision has revealed an ugly and bitter face of our society. The sad reality that there are still parts of our country where a woman is treated as an object has been brought into the limelight. A teenage girl was ordered to be raped to avenge the rape crime committed by her brother. The spontaneous and rapid action taken by the chief minister of Punjab in this regard is commendable. Those who are responsible for such a heinous decision must be given an exemplary punishment to set a good precedent.

Qazi Jamshed Alam Siddiqui (Lahore)