News Desk
Sargodha, Punjab – Two women, Rukhsana Bibi and Asifa Bibi, fell victim to sexual harassment and physical violence in the sugarcane fields of village Chak No. 122, South Sargodha, on January 29, 2024. The assailant, identified as Abdul Rauf, armed with an axe, targeted the women when they went to the fields for a toilet facility.
The horrifying incident unfolded as Rauf attempted to sexually assault Rukhsana Bibi, threatening her life with the weapon. Despite her plea for mercy, Rauf persisted in his assault. Asifa Bibi, hearing the cries for help, rushed to intervene, only to be met with an axe blow to her head and face. Both women endured severe injuries during the assault.
The assailant, Abdul Rauf, subjected the victims to death threats, compelling them to remain silent about the attack before fleeing the scene. Summoning their courage, the women sought help from passersby on the main road, eventually making a call to their families.Bilal Maish, Asifa Bibi’s husband, arrived at the scene, contacted the police helpline, and facilitated the women’s transportation to Civil Hospital Sahiwal. There, they underwent an initial medico-legal examination and received necessary medical treatment.
Despite the gravity of the incident, disappointment arose as no legal case was initially filed against the perpetrator, highlighting a perceived lack of police action. However, on January 30, 2024, Nasir Masih, Rukhsana Bibi’s husband, reported the incident at the Sillanwali police station under FIR no. 105/24, citing offenses under sections 354, 337-A, 337-F PPC. Notably, the registered FIR did not include charges related to attempted rape or sexual assault.
In response to the incident, local pastors gathered statements from the victims, which gained attention on social platforms managed by Christians’ True Spirit (CTS). Ms. Katherine Sapna, Executive Director, and Mr. Asher Sarfraz, Chief Executive, along with the CTS team, visited the affected women in Sargodha city. They assisted the victims in approaching Mr. Farhan Aslam, SP Investigations Sargodha, urging the inclusion of charges of rape (376, 511 PPC) in the case FIR.
CTS vehemently condemns this heinous crime and stands in solidarity with the victims, pledging support until justice is served, said the CTS report on incident.