Part 1:
Part 2:
Wednesday 27 April 2011
Tuesday 26 April 2011
Monday 25 April 2011
Sunday 24 April 2011
When rapists go free
Rape, like hate, is a strong word. It’s taboo to use it in some parts of the country, while the word ‘sexual assault’ is used in its place, to somehow lessen its effect. But the effect of rape cannot be lessened. For all the tens of thousands of women who have been subjected to any form of sexual abuse in any part of Pakistan – that includes kidnap and rape, gang-rape, rape at gunpoint, rape by acquaintances, marital rape, rape as a child, raped by someone in power – and are still awaiting justice, the final verdict on world-renowned Mukhtaran Mai’s case is a slap in their face.
Mai, 30, was gang raped in the month of June in 2002 allegedly, on the orders of a tribal jirga. Afterwards, she was paraded naked in the village. Her crime? Mai’s tragedy unfolded after her 12-year-old brother was arrested by police on charges of adultery leveled against him by members belonging to the village’s influential Mastoi clan. Interestingly, the police arrested the 12-year-old on a charge they had no witness or evidence for, however, the fact that that the boy’s assertion that he had been sodomised was not even worth carrying out a medical examination. This is the kind of power and hold that exists since time immemorial, and continues to be used by influential tribes, government personnel and the powerful in Pakistan for their own benefit.
But this verdict does not shock me. It only reiterates my belief – or lack of – that rape cases in Pakistan will always remain unsolved and left unpunished. Remember Veena Hayat? She was a friend of Benazir Bhutto and was allegedly gang raped by five men at the orders of the son-in-law of then president of Pakistan, the late Ghulam Ishaq Khan. The Hayat family and Ms Bhutto produced, what they said were authenticated police records of Ms Hayat’s formal complaint that she was gang raped on November 27, 1991. Hayat had accused Marwat of the offence, when he was adviser on home affairs in the Jam Sadiq Ali ministry. Ms Bhutto seemed visibly shaken and described Ms Hayat’s rape as the worst kind of male prejudice and chauvinism employed to send a message to a woman political leader. Marwat denied the charge and was also inducted in the Sindh cabinet. To date, the Veena Hayat case remains shrouded in mystery. If indeed she was raped, her rapists remained free then. They remain free now.
Another baffling case in point: Dr Shazia Khalid, who was raped by an army captain in her room at the Sui Gas Plant in Baluchistan on January 3, 2005. She was kept drugged for two days so that all necessary evidence could be destroyed. But as her persistence to file a complaint increased, employers at Sui doubled their efforts to keep her silent. A case was registered against Shazia pronouncing her mentally unstable, and her husband’s family cut off all ties with her for the shame that she brought upon them. But Shazia remained persistent. She finally levelled rape charges against the accused – a case that led to an uprising by the Bugti tribe, followed by the disruption of gas to most parts of the country for weeks.
The then President, General Musharraf was quick to come to the army’s rescue and declared the accused, one Captain Hammad, not guilty. And that was that. Shazia Khalid was wrapped up in an alleged deal with the government and flown to London. Asylum was the price paid for her silence. And her rapist remained free. Enlightened moderation. Indeed. More emboldened crimes, perhaps.
These are only some cases in which women directly targeted the “powers-that-be” of this country. However, there are others who have the backing of the powerful to win over the powerless. Women in Pakistan are not only victims of a feudal system underpinned by a military absolutism that recognises no human dignity, but are also prey to retrogressive cultural values and a criminal justice system that is in a deep state of rot.
There is also the recent case of a Christian nurse-aid, Magdeleine, who was allegedly raped by a medico-legal officer of the biggest government hospital in Karachi. Reportedly, amid much pressure and threats, a deal was struck. The result: Magdeleine dropped off the face of the earth and the medico-legal officer went free.
And let’s also not forget the ‘White Corolla’ case. Women were picked up at random spots in posh localities of Karachi, raped, and left stranded. The FIR was registered against an Ali Muhammad Hajiano. Turned out he was the son of an influential person. Hajiano to date, remains free and currently resides in Dubai.
The standard legal response to sex crime accusations and how such charges are handled in Pakistan, are an insult to survivors of rape and sexual assault. Those working in rape crisis centres in Pakistan will tell you that they have deep backlogs of women raped by their own fathers, step fathers, school teachers, brothers-in-law, fathers-in-law and uncles, who don’t get justice. Then there are the independent self-reliant women who are raped but can’t even get a serious hearing. ‘Women do not get out of their chaar deewari and remain safe!’ It’s due to this very perception perpetuated by chauvinistic institutions, that the women of this country are losing their battle against rape.
Mukhtaran Mai lost hers in the name of a faulty investigation by the police – the loopholes that are left intentionally to support power brokers – and an incorrect first information report. Noteworthy is the fact that nine years ago when Mai was subjected to rape, she was illiterate. She did not know what she was signing; the report was never read out to her. There has been disappointment and disdain at Mai’s verdict throughout the world and discussions are rife about how the supreme court could have, should have demanded more evidence and reinvestigation into this case. But those who are on her side need to understand that her rapists may be free today, but Mai has locked their evil designs for life.
Back in 2002, her village, Meerwala had no electricity, no roads and no schools. The young girls of her village had no understanding of their inherent rights and lacked direction. Mai came to their rescue. She managed to win the battle against the feudal elite who scorn women’s rights and do all they can to obstruct change. Mukhtaran Mai’s schools, her shelters and other operations will ensure that the next generation of Meerwala girls do not fall prey to another tribal custom. Today her rapists may be free but that’s nothing compared to the 1200 children she has helped liberate.
In a society where every oppressor’s strength is the silence of the oppressed, Mukhtaran Mai dared to speak out – an action that is fast becoming punishable by death – even for governors and ministers. Her voice gave many other women like her the courage to stand up against tyranny. Next up: Mai’s protégé, Assiya. A teenage girl who has filed a case against her rapists – tribal ‘lords’ and the police. It’s time to stand up and be counted!
Wednesday 20 April 2011
Tuesday 19 April 2011
Monday 18 April 2011
Tuesday 12 April 2011
Monday 11 April 2011
Sunday 10 April 2011
Super Guide to Taking Geo Super Off Air
“Mirror, Mirror, on the wall…who is the fairest of them all?” When this question was put forth by Snow White’s stepmother in a fairytale, the poor girl had to live with dwarves to survive. Here, today in this not so fairytale world, the same question was posed to PEMRA by the government. And the reply, as expected: Geo. PEMRA seems to have become the mirror of vain rulers. General Musharraf and President Zardari may have many enemies. Owing to their powerful positions (and nefarious designs), who wouldn’t? However, while ‘punishing’ the fairest was a hit formula in the distant past - when information was sacred and state-run media got to play the role of the big bad guy to some privately owned channels – that privilege now ceases to exist.
Between the democratically elected and the self-selected, our generals have all but one flaw. They take on their opponent straight up. And make no apologies for it. The General who ruled us not long ago, blamed the media along with terrorists and the judiciary for his decision to impose a nationwide state of emergency on November 3, 2007. Notwithstanding the fact that Geo TV was shut down even when it was being broadcast from outside the country lent a new dimension to the General’s media crackdown. The ‘general’ influence traveled to Dubai’s Media City and Dubai leaders were made to realize that they were indeed playing havoc with another country’s stability and the cause of all evil was silenced.
Others in the leading role play a more diplomatic, at other times such a twisted game that it is hard to decipher whether they are out to get you or whether you have got them! This government makes its move with the calculation and shrewdness of a fox – sly enough to feign ignorance and hard enough to hurt. So, if they decided to shut down Geo News, our stories would still find their target audience in readers of the Jang Group of Publications. Not to mention that they would have a lot of explaining to do on other channels. ‘Why was Geo shut down?’ many would ask, and really even the King’s men have their limitations. And that would make the democratic leader look bad – and no sir, that’s not allowed – do what it takes without hurting yourself. Even if it means, stooping really low. And voila, with a little help from a balding man who has sold his soul to state-owned media – general, no bar – and ideas from a bearded man who recently lost his ministry, with financial information of the group to boot, the idea came. And lets not forget the President – who never had the time or energy to visit the flood affected areas of a country he rules until after the worst had passed – his contribution to ‘operation: Destroy Geo’ is worth mentioning. A man who gives more time to this Group and its “actors” in his speeches ahead of terrorism, electricity, inflation, corruption and would convene meetings almost every day with his loyal advisors until the idea struck. Take Geo Super off air! Just before the world cup.
But thank God for the Independent Judiciary in Pakistan. Geo Super had exclusive rights, retained its exclusivity and didn’t fall prey to evil motives. Strike two: the management received a letter saying that Geo Super cannot be uplinked from Pakistan. Geo Super poses a security threat to Pakistan, says PEMRA; however, almost a decade ago, that was precisely the reason for which the PPP government was taken off Pakistan’s political scene. Security risk. Right. In this country, that’s the only reason for dismissing anything that has no reasonable argument for dismissing.
Let me be honest here. I like this government. For the fact that it’s democratic. However, my point of argument does not just stem from my association with the Group but also because I believe that tolerance is a fundamental necessity for any society or nation to grow and prosper. As for Pakistan, intolerance is one of its greatest evils. And intolerance springs from disagreement. Former Governor of Punjab, Salman Taseer dared to disagree. Mumtaz Qadri shot Taseer 26 times because he disapproved of his disagreement. Federal Minister for Minorities, Shahbaz Bhatti met his untimely death because he begged to differ. The two boys killed in Sialkot, Mughees and Munib too were beaten to death by an intolerant mob. Target killings in Karachi are a proof of intolerance and Wali Khan Babar had to die an untimely death because he too, dared to disagree. And Geo Super has been choked now because Geo News and Jang Group stand in disagreement to what the government proposes. In this enmity they went to the extent of hurting not only Geo but also cricket. Cricket: that binds this nation together; a sport that probably is the only entertainment and joy left in our lives and most importantly a competition where we can still hope to beat the world. Just a look at the efforts made by government to hurt Geo Super would leave many confused on whether to laugh at it or seriously praise the government’s efforts.
First, an official letter was issued by PEMRA on December 22nd 2010 confirming that GEO Super is the only channel that has the right to air the World Cup on Cable and Satellite. Later, PEMRA had a change of heart or was it advice? Bad advice! PEMRA said it had made a mistake and that GEO Super does not have the rights required to air the World Cup. Henceforth, the official notification issued on December 22nd was canceled. PEMRA then decided to take a different route. Suddenly, it was the Competition Commission that declared Geo Super’s exclusive rights for World Cup as violation of Anti Monopoly rules. But there was one little detail they overlooked – the fact that PTV also took part in the bidding. The problem began just after Geo Super won the bid. Interestingly, the Competition Commission was missing its head (literally!) until just two days before it took notice of this violation. Additionally, the newly appointed ‘head’ was used by other heads to qualify its first battle with GEO Super. Efficiency at its best!
The comedy of errors doesn’t end there. It was revealed that though all “broadcasters” come under PEMRA law, PTV doesn’t. Does that mean that PTV is not a broadcast channel? Pray tell, then what is thou? PTV is not a broadcaster and Geo Super is a security threat. I wonder how we got here. I admit that at times it may feel like criticism of the government’s decisions is becoming more of a habit than reformative concern amongst our media experts. However, media is a reflection of the society we live in, anchors and journalists don’t get dropped off directly from heaven. They are also a part of the same corrupt and two-faced society which entails them to criticize the same people they accompany to Jeddah for free Hajj. There are others who openly speak against nepotism but don’t bat an eyelash when acres of land are offered to them. Then there are also those who only indulge in straight cut talk, but cannot explain how they are able to purchase a BMW and maintain a membership at a posh club from an income that their tax returns simply don’t justify.
In the last few weeks this government has suffered greatly due to intolerance. And still maintained its reconciliatory tone: ‘democracy is the best revenge.’ However, the deep-seated issues it harbors for this group are a lesson that the intolerant will be fast to learn. And spread. This government needs to take a long hard look at what it has achieved in the process of getting even. “Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall…” Too bad it doesn’t work for the conscience.
Between the democratically elected and the self-selected, our generals have all but one flaw. They take on their opponent straight up. And make no apologies for it. The General who ruled us not long ago, blamed the media along with terrorists and the judiciary for his decision to impose a nationwide state of emergency on November 3, 2007. Notwithstanding the fact that Geo TV was shut down even when it was being broadcast from outside the country lent a new dimension to the General’s media crackdown. The ‘general’ influence traveled to Dubai’s Media City and Dubai leaders were made to realize that they were indeed playing havoc with another country’s stability and the cause of all evil was silenced.
Others in the leading role play a more diplomatic, at other times such a twisted game that it is hard to decipher whether they are out to get you or whether you have got them! This government makes its move with the calculation and shrewdness of a fox – sly enough to feign ignorance and hard enough to hurt. So, if they decided to shut down Geo News, our stories would still find their target audience in readers of the Jang Group of Publications. Not to mention that they would have a lot of explaining to do on other channels. ‘Why was Geo shut down?’ many would ask, and really even the King’s men have their limitations. And that would make the democratic leader look bad – and no sir, that’s not allowed – do what it takes without hurting yourself. Even if it means, stooping really low. And voila, with a little help from a balding man who has sold his soul to state-owned media – general, no bar – and ideas from a bearded man who recently lost his ministry, with financial information of the group to boot, the idea came. And lets not forget the President – who never had the time or energy to visit the flood affected areas of a country he rules until after the worst had passed – his contribution to ‘operation: Destroy Geo’ is worth mentioning. A man who gives more time to this Group and its “actors” in his speeches ahead of terrorism, electricity, inflation, corruption and would convene meetings almost every day with his loyal advisors until the idea struck. Take Geo Super off air! Just before the world cup.
But thank God for the Independent Judiciary in Pakistan. Geo Super had exclusive rights, retained its exclusivity and didn’t fall prey to evil motives. Strike two: the management received a letter saying that Geo Super cannot be uplinked from Pakistan. Geo Super poses a security threat to Pakistan, says PEMRA; however, almost a decade ago, that was precisely the reason for which the PPP government was taken off Pakistan’s political scene. Security risk. Right. In this country, that’s the only reason for dismissing anything that has no reasonable argument for dismissing.
Let me be honest here. I like this government. For the fact that it’s democratic. However, my point of argument does not just stem from my association with the Group but also because I believe that tolerance is a fundamental necessity for any society or nation to grow and prosper. As for Pakistan, intolerance is one of its greatest evils. And intolerance springs from disagreement. Former Governor of Punjab, Salman Taseer dared to disagree. Mumtaz Qadri shot Taseer 26 times because he disapproved of his disagreement. Federal Minister for Minorities, Shahbaz Bhatti met his untimely death because he begged to differ. The two boys killed in Sialkot, Mughees and Munib too were beaten to death by an intolerant mob. Target killings in Karachi are a proof of intolerance and Wali Khan Babar had to die an untimely death because he too, dared to disagree. And Geo Super has been choked now because Geo News and Jang Group stand in disagreement to what the government proposes. In this enmity they went to the extent of hurting not only Geo but also cricket. Cricket: that binds this nation together; a sport that probably is the only entertainment and joy left in our lives and most importantly a competition where we can still hope to beat the world. Just a look at the efforts made by government to hurt Geo Super would leave many confused on whether to laugh at it or seriously praise the government’s efforts.
First, an official letter was issued by PEMRA on December 22nd 2010 confirming that GEO Super is the only channel that has the right to air the World Cup on Cable and Satellite. Later, PEMRA had a change of heart or was it advice? Bad advice! PEMRA said it had made a mistake and that GEO Super does not have the rights required to air the World Cup. Henceforth, the official notification issued on December 22nd was canceled. PEMRA then decided to take a different route. Suddenly, it was the Competition Commission that declared Geo Super’s exclusive rights for World Cup as violation of Anti Monopoly rules. But there was one little detail they overlooked – the fact that PTV also took part in the bidding. The problem began just after Geo Super won the bid. Interestingly, the Competition Commission was missing its head (literally!) until just two days before it took notice of this violation. Additionally, the newly appointed ‘head’ was used by other heads to qualify its first battle with GEO Super. Efficiency at its best!
The comedy of errors doesn’t end there. It was revealed that though all “broadcasters” come under PEMRA law, PTV doesn’t. Does that mean that PTV is not a broadcast channel? Pray tell, then what is thou? PTV is not a broadcaster and Geo Super is a security threat. I wonder how we got here. I admit that at times it may feel like criticism of the government’s decisions is becoming more of a habit than reformative concern amongst our media experts. However, media is a reflection of the society we live in, anchors and journalists don’t get dropped off directly from heaven. They are also a part of the same corrupt and two-faced society which entails them to criticize the same people they accompany to Jeddah for free Hajj. There are others who openly speak against nepotism but don’t bat an eyelash when acres of land are offered to them. Then there are also those who only indulge in straight cut talk, but cannot explain how they are able to purchase a BMW and maintain a membership at a posh club from an income that their tax returns simply don’t justify.
In the last few weeks this government has suffered greatly due to intolerance. And still maintained its reconciliatory tone: ‘democracy is the best revenge.’ However, the deep-seated issues it harbors for this group are a lesson that the intolerant will be fast to learn. And spread. This government needs to take a long hard look at what it has achieved in the process of getting even. “Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall…” Too bad it doesn’t work for the conscience.
Wednesday 6 April 2011
Tuesday 5 April 2011
Monday 4 April 2011
Sunday 3 April 2011
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)