The role of educational and law abiding institutions in preventing sexual violence: A case study of Punjab College rape case

“Her story may have ended too soon, but it is a call to action—a reminder that the fight for women’s dignity and justice is far from over.”

Rape continues to be one of the most heinous and prevalent crimes in Pakistan, where victims often face societal stigma, a lack of institutional support, and a justice system that frequently fails them. The recent alleged rape of a young student at Punjab Group of Colleges (PGC) Campus 10 in Lahore has reignited the conversation about sexual violence and the need for systemic reform in Pakistan.

In October 2024, a first-year student at PGC was reportedly raped by a security guard in the basement of the college during a break. The accused, who had a known history of inappropriate behaviour, took advantage of the situation when the victim was accidentally locked in the basement. A teacher found the girl in distress, and she was immediately admitted to the ICU for treatment. This incident sent shockwaves throughout the country, sparking massive protests by students, who were outraged by both the assault and the college administration’s alleged attempts to cover up the incident.

The protests quickly turned violent, with students clashing with police. This resulted in injuries on both sides as the demonstrations grew across multiple campuses. Students demanded justice for the victim and transparency from the college administration, which they accused of prioritizing the institution’s reputation over the safety of its students. Many believe this incident reflects a broader culture of neglect and lack of accountability in educational institutions across the country.

This case is a microcosm of a much larger problem in Pakistan. Despite legal measures such as the Anti-Rape Ordinance 2020 and the Women’s Protection Bill, the country continues to witness alarming rates of sexual violence. According to human rights organizations, many cases go unreported due to the stigma attached to rape, which often leaves victims facing more backlash than the perpetrators themselves. Even when cases are reported, the road to justice is long and fraught with challenges. Law enforcement agencies are often slow to respond, and investigations can be compromised by corruption or societal pressure.

In many parts of Pakistan, rape victims are met with suspicion or outright blame. Cultural norms often silence victims, discouraging them from coming forward due to fear of being ostracized by their families and communities. This societal stigma is one of the biggest barriers to justice, as victims are often viewed through the lens of shame, rather than as individuals in need of protection .

Institutions must prioritize student safety over their public image. This includes implementing rigorous background checks on staff, particularly those in positions of power, and creating an environment where students can report cases of harassment and assault without fear of retaliation. Furthermore, there must be clear policies in place for handling such incidents, with zero tolerance for any cover-ups.

Addressing rape in Pakistan requires a multifaceted approach that tackles both cultural and institutional challenges. First, there needs to be widespread public education campaigns that dismantle the stigma surrounding rape and sexual violence. Survivors should be empowered to come forward, and society must shift its focus from blaming victims to holding perpetrators accountable.

Second, legal reforms are crucial. While some laws exist, the implementation of these laws remains weak. There is a need for stricter enforcement and quicker trials to ensure that justice is served. Law enforcement agencies should receive specialized training in handling sexual assault cases with sensitivity and professionalism. Survivors should have access to legal and psychological support to help them navigate the trauma and the often-difficult process of seeking justice.

Lastly, there must be greater oversight of institutions like schools and universities to ensure that they are not only places of learning but also safe spaces for students. This includes regular safety audits, clear reporting mechanisms for cases of harassment, and a commitment to transparency from school administrations.

The rape at Punjab College Campus 10 is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that women and girls face in Pakistan. It has underscored the urgent need for cultural, legal, and institutional reforms to protect survivors and bring perpetrators to justice. As protests continue to echo across the country, it is clear that the youth are demanding change, and their voices must be heard. Only through a collective effort can Pakistan begin to address the deep-rooted issue of rape and build a society where survivors are supported, and justice is served.

“Her spirit remains unbroken, a testament to strength and resilience. In her silence, she speaks volumes of the battles fought, a reminder that every woman’s life is sacred and deserving of respect.”