In a bustling city like Lahore, where the traffic never seems to rest, and people from all walks of life cross paths, one might think they are accustomed to the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, a recent incident has left me reeling, shedding light on a pressing issue that deserves attention. This incident occurred not too long ago when a mother and her daughter, arriving from another city, found themselves in the midst of a chaotic situation in a rickshaw. The noise was deafening, and the commotion was nothing short of extraordinary. The police swiftly swung into action, but it also sparked a debate about the safety of women traveling alone. How did the authorities handle this case, and what can we learn from it?
Common Crimes in Urban Areas
Before and even after my time, petty crimes were a common occurrence, often carried out by pickpockets on local buses. Daily commuters on overcrowded public transport were vulnerable to having their pockets picked, making it a common nuisance. However, with the introduction of the metro bus system, the situation began to change. I cannot speak for the male experience, but for women, it became easier to engage in subtle activities that went unnoticed, even within the confines of a burka. These burkas served a purpose beyond their original intent, becoming tools for carrying out various discreet actions.
The Shocking Turn of Events
Now, let me narrate the incident that shook me to my core. On a Thursday, September 28th, I needed to travel from Kinnaird College to Lahore College. The distance wasn’t too far, and I expected to reach my destination in no time. After waiting for about ten minutes, I hailed the first passing rickshaw. As I approached, I noticed two women wearing burkas seated inside. I hesitated, telling the driver I didn’t want to travel with them. He informed me that these women had just boarded from a nearby bus stop.
In a split second, one of the women started vomiting. Panicking, I told the rickshaw driver to stop. Instead of halting, he began zigzagging through the streets. The woman beside me continued to vomit while the driver showed no intention of stopping. It was apparent to me that the driver was trying to make some extra money, and I needed to get out of the situation quickly. I decided to disembark, but the other woman insisted she couldn’t step out due to a medical issue with her leg. I exited the rickshaw and, without fully understanding the situation, paid the driver, who promptly sped away.
A Disturbing Discovery
Confused and shaken, I reached my destination and, to my horror, discovered that my bag had been tampered with. I felt helpless as my bag was now devoid of all its contents. My money was gone, my cards, service cards, personal identification, and all the necessary documents were missing. The only possession that remained in my control was my mobile phone.
In my state of distress, I informed my family, and by 4 o’clock, all was set in motion to rectify the situation. Meanwhile, I questioned the authorities about the absence of media coverage and social media alerts regarding such incidents. It was an alarming episode, and it seemed as though the issue had been swept under the rug by the authorities. As a result, I felt a compelling urge to raise awareness about it.
The Response from Law Enforcement
Eight days passed, and there was no communication from the police. Six days later, I decided to contact the investigation officer. He confirmed that he had received my request, but because I work night shifts, he didn’t want to disturb me at a late hour.
The rickshaw driver took advantage of the helplessness of these women, who were rendered unconscious by a drug they had unknowingly ingested. They had been victimized by a series of petty crimes carried out in the dark, with the police struggling to investigate such cases.
The Need for Personal Vigilance
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for personal vigilance. We must make one another aware of such incidents through social media and other means. When taking a rickshaw, be vigilant about the driver’s actions and the presence of any other passengers. Share your location with your family, and do not hesitate to reach out for help. Remember, even in our homes and cities, safety is not a guarantee. While the police are doing their best, it is essential for us to take precautions to ensure our well-being.