This is a dangerous matter, especially when we hear that the number of rape cases is increasing. This rapist did not only rape children, he raped an entire society. He also raped religion, morality and inherited values in society.
What is notable is that relatives complain about the delay in pronouncing a verdict against a criminal who raped society.
Investigations into and trials of rape cases, because of their sensitive nature, normally take a long time. This sends the wrong message that such cases are not handled with the required seriousness.
It is quite obvious that there are reasons for this perversion. It is imperative that concerned authorities should find out these reasons.
These reasons are economic, social and religious. A delayed marriage due to a high dowry is both a social and economic reason. A lack of moral restraint is a religious reason.
All these reasons lead to the finger of blame being pointed at shortcomings on the part of concerned parties in discharging their responsibilities. Otherwise, we would not have ended up in this quagmire of immorality.
When the tragedy of a brutal assault on a young girl occurs, her parents are to be partly blamed because they should have kept a watchful eye on her instead of leaving her alone in the streets.
If the girl is a student, then her teachers should also shoulder responsibility for the sin as they failed to perform their duty of enlightening their students against becoming prey to these wolves who do not have any conscience and sense of morality.
The teachers should have made the poor victim aware of the importance of being vigilant and that the streets are not a safe place for her.
It is also essential to carry out rehabilitation courses for rape victims. Specialist psychologists and sociologists who have expertise and experience in the field have to play a key role in handling such cases.
There is the also the question of chastity. A young rape victim loses her virginity, threatening her entire future and eventually leading to her final breakdown.
I know that this is an issue with Shariah dimensions for which Islamic jurisprudents must find an answer. They should conduct research on the matter and issue a religious edict that would help save these helpless little girls from a crime for which they are not at all accountable.
The issue is a grave one and hence, it should be dealt with determination. Otherwise, the foundations of society will be shaken while there are citizens who are unsound.
