SWAT: Protests continued across Swat over the alleged sexual assault and killing of nine-year-old Ishmal in the Madyan area, with students, women, lawyers, political and social activists and local residents demanding justice and strict punishment for the nominated accused.
A protest organized by Zalmi Swat was held at Nishat Chowk in Mingora, while women staged another major demonstration in Madyan. Participants called for a swift, transparent and impartial investigation and urged authorities to ensure the case is handled according to law.
Students from various educational institutions, including boys and girls, joined the demonstrations alongside lawyers, civil society representatives, political leaders, social activists and residents.
Protesters Demand Action in Ishmal Case
Protesters carried placards calling for justice for Ishmal, stronger protection for children and severe punishment for the nominated accused, identified as Sultan Muhammad.
In Mingora, protesters later marched along Saidu Sharif Road and held a demonstration outside the district courts. In Madyan, women protesters also took out a procession along the Mingora-Kalam Road.
Speakers described the alleged assault and killing of the child as a deeply disturbing incident and called for the investigation to be completed fairly and without delay. PPP leader Iqbal Hussain, Jamaat-i-Islami’s Barakat Ali Baba, Swat Traders Federation spokesperson Dr Khalid Mahmood, Riaz Hairan and other speakers demanded that the accused receive strict punishment under the law if found guilty.
Some protesters also called for the death penalty, including public hanging, for the accused.
Women Raise Concerns Over Police Investigation
Women participating in the Madyan protest raised concerns about the investigation of serious crimes by Swat police and called for improvements in investigative procedures.
They suggested that police personnel receive professional investigation training from Peshawar Police to strengthen the handling of serious criminal cases.
The protesters also urged the government and relevant institutions to introduce practical measures to prevent crimes against children and establish stronger safeguards for their protection.
They said demonstrations would continue until justice is delivered in Ishmal’s case and effective measures are adopted to improve child safety.