Lahore: The Lahore High Court on Tuesday reserved its verdict on appeals filed by two convicts seeking to overturn the death sentences awarded to them in the high-profile motorway rape case.

A two-member bench headed by Justice Syed Shahbaz Ali Rizvi heard arguments from both sides before reserving judgment.

The appeals were filed by convicts Abid Malhi and Shafqat Baga, who challenged the death penalty handed down by an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in March 2021. The case drew nationwide attention and sparked widespread debate over women’s safety and criminal justice reforms in Pakistan.

During the hearing, counsel for the appellants argued that the trial court had failed to properly evaluate the facts and evidence presented by the defence. The lawyer maintained that the convicts were not given adequate consideration during the trial and requested the court to set aside the death sentences and order their release.

Opposing the appeals, prosecutor Raheela Shahid defended the ATC verdict, arguing that the judgment was based on strong, credible, and legally admissible evidence. She urged the court to dismiss the appeals and uphold the convictions and sentences.

After hearing detailed arguments from both parties, the bench reserved its decision.

Background of the motorway rape case

The Anti-Terrorism Court sentenced both convicts to death on March 20, 2021, after finding them guilty in the motorway rape case that shocked the country and led to renewed calls for stronger protections for women and tougher action against violent crimes.

The convicts challenged the ATC ruling before the Lahore High Court on March 25, 2021. The court’s reserved verdict will determine whether the convictions and death sentences are upheld, modified, or set aside.