The Lahore High Court (LHC) has scheduled for hearing of appeals against the death sentences of Abid Malhi and Shafqat Bagga, the convicts involved in the harrowing rape incident on the Sialkot Motorway.
Set by the Registrar’s Office, the hearing is slated to take place today (Tuesday) and will be heard by Justice Shahram Sarwar Chaudhry and Justice Ali Zia Bajwa.
Following their conviction by Lahore’s Anti-Terrorism Court in March 2021, where both perpetrators were sentenced to death, Abid Malhi and Shafqat Bagga have filed appeals against the court’s decision.
The Gujarpura police had lodged a case against the criminals, leading to a trial that culminated in the death sentence and fines for the convicted individuals.
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Pakistan was rocked by the horrific rape incident on the Sialkot Motorway, which led to indignation and demands for justice throughout the country. The event started when a mom driving with her kids ran out of petrol and got stuck on the road. Then, in a horrifying act of violence, she was the victim of two attackers’ vicious assault and rape.
The rape on the Sialkot motorway highlighted the issue of violence against women in Pakistan. The incident also sparked a debate about the safety of women on Pakistan's roads. Many women have shared their experiences of feeling unsafe while driving alone, and there have been calls for improved lighting and security on the country's motorways.
