I am sure all the social media users have seen the video of how a woman was trapped in the provincial capital of Punjab by a mob. In a heartening display of bravery and dedication to duty, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Syeda Shehrbano Naqvi, the SDPO of Gulberg, Lahore, intervened to rescue a woman from a violent mob in Lahore’s Ichihara area. The incident unfolded when the woman and her husband went shopping and encountered a mob who demanded to remove her attire, which they mistook for containing Arabic verses from the Quran.
The viral video shared by the Punjab police on social media platforms captured the tense moments as ASP Syeda Shehrbano Naqvi swiftly intervened, placing herself between the frightened woman and the aggressive mob. Despite facing potential danger herself, she managed to safely extricate the woman from the crowd and defuse the situation, preventing any physical harm.
This incident sheds light on several pressing issues within Pakistani society, including the rise of vigilantism, the importance of upholding the rule of law, space for women, respect for other’s points of view and the need for greater tolerance and understanding.
As a female member of the society, I observed that the intolerance faced by the women in Lahore can manifest in various forms, both immediate and long-term. Before the beginning of the month of “March” a new discourse will be open about “Aurat March”, women vulnerability and they may experience intolerance such as stigmatization and blame, social isolation: psychological trauma, lack of support services, continued threat of violence, legal and judicial challenges, family support and what not?
My first point is that the attempted attack on the woman by the mob underscores the dangerous trend of vigilantism that threatens the fabric of society. In instances where individuals take it upon themselves to mete out punishment based on their interpretations or misunderstandings, law enforcement becomes paramount in maintaining order and safeguarding the rights of individuals.
Moreover, the intervention by ASP Syeda Shehrbano Naqvi highlights the critical role of law enforcement in upholding justice and protecting citizens from harm. Her swift and decisive action not only prevented potential violence but also sent a strong message that law enforcement agencies are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all members of society, regardless of their beliefs or dress. Furthermore, the incident underscores the need for greater tolerance and understanding within society. Mistaking Arabic prints on clothing for Quranic verses reflects a lack of awareness, education and cultural sensitivity.
I am also concerned that it may not be long before these individuals and mob extend their hostility to include Arabic newspapers, simply because they lack comprehension of the language and its contents, resorting to disrespect or disregard. This case presents an opportunity for education and dialogue to promote acceptance and respect for cultural diversity. Beside the bravery displayed by ASP Naqvi in risking her safety to rescue the woman from the violent mob deserves recognition and commendation. Her selfless act exemplifies the dedication and courage exhibited by law enforcement personnel in fulfilling their duty to protect and serve the community, often at great personal risk.
Overall, the intolerance faced by Pakistani women after an attack by a mob reflects broader societal attitudes and systemic challenges related to gender-based violence, discrimination and impunity. Addressing these issues requires concerted efforts to challenge patriarchal norms, strengthen legal protections for women and promote gender equality and social inclusion. It also underscores the indispensable role of educators, mentors and teachers to promote tolerance and educate laymen. Pakistani society must prioritize education and cultivate tolerance to foster inclusivity so that no woman should ask to publicly confess and beg for “forgiveness” for what people misunderstood.
—The writer is journalist and doing research on fake news in South Asia
Email: sophia.itp@gmail.com
views expressed are writer’s own.
