Letters to Editor
Women Safety under Threat: Urgent Action Needed To Curb Sexual Violence
The alarming rise in rape cases is becoming a severe threat to the safety of women across the globe, particularly in South Asia. Immediate and decisive action is needed to curb this disturbing trend and protect the rights and dignity of women. Despite numerous laws designed to protect women, the significant increase in sexual violence and harassment highlights the gap in our justice system. This issue transcends national boundaries and is fundamentally about the rights and status of women in society.
The recent case in Kolkata involving the rape and murder of a female trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College has raised widespread outrage and protests across India. The incident occurred on August 9, 2024, when the young doctor’s body was found in a seminar hall at the hospital. She was brutally raped and tortured. The attackers reportedly confined her, inflicted physical injuries, and subjected her to extensive torture, which contributed to her death. There has been a noticeable rise in rape cases in Pakistan as well. The Lahore Motorway Gang Rape (2020) ,the Zainab Ansari Case (2018) and the Multan Gang Rape Case (2022) etc.
Additionally, many instances of sexual violence go unreported in the media, reflecting a larger issue of widespread, hidden abuse. There is an urgent need for comprehensive action to address and prevent rape cases. It is essential to enforce strict legal penalties, including capital punishment for the most severe offenses, to deter potential criminals. Alongside this, improving victim support services and promoting fair justice.
Areebah Yasmeen , Multan
[email protected]
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Impact of Corruption on Economic development in Pakistan
Dear Editor,
I am writing to highlight the severe impact of corruption on Pakistan’s economic development. Corruption distorts market mechanisms, leading to inefficiencies and misallocation of resources. This undermines productivity and discourages both domestic and foreign investment.
Firstly, corruption leads to economic inefficiency by distorting market mechanisms. Resources are misallocated, which hampers overall economic productivity and effectiveness. Secondly, the pervasive nature of corruption acts as a deterrent for both domestic and foreign investors, who are often discouraged by the uncertainty and additional costs associated with corrupt practices.
Moreover, corruption inflates business costs, impeding profitability and stifling economic growth. It also leads to poorly managed infrastructure projects, further delaying progress. The erosion of public trust in institutions weakens governance and deepens income inequality, benefiting only those with connections.
To address these issues, stronger anti-corruption measures, enhanced transparency, and improved accountability are essential. Effective reforms can foster a more stable economic environment, supporting sustainable growth.
I urge your publication to bring attention to this pressing issue and advocate for necessary changes.