A few months ago, Meenah Tariq, a noted public speaker, had to face one of the most harrowing experiences in her life.
She became the target of harassment by a group of boys while on a vacation at near Khunjrab Pass, Hunza. Her account of the mental agony she was subjected to by a group of ruffians there, went viral over social media, and sparked a conversation about similar issues faced by women all over Pakistan,
Everyone knows her story by now. And many more also know that sadly nothing is done regarding such characters by the authorities in charge.
All’s Well That Ends Well
Recently, Meenah had something heartening to share regarding the incident she went through in July this year.
Meenah says that her harrowing experience has actually resulted in some meaningful action being taken by the authorities.
She said that Mr. M Anas Goraya, Assistant Commissioner at Hunza, personally reached out to her regarding the issue she faced at Khunjerab Pass.
First he apologized for what Meenah, her friends and family had to go through there. And then he proceeded to the heart of the matter – harassment of women needs to be shut down once and for all.
Harassment of women is no joke, nor is it a matter that should be brushed under the carpet. Following a public outcry against serial harassers and Meenah’s appeal, Mr. Goraya has mentioned that the authorities have established a complaint center for such issues. He personally assured Meenah that such issues wont be tolerated and that strict action will be taken against miscreants who spoil the holiday experience for other families and ladies.
Meenah, touched by Mr. Goraya’s gesture and message, took to Facebook and updated her followers:
Meenah’s example shows that one should never be afraid to speak out and illustrates the potential for change social media grants to each of us. The conclusion to her story has brought hope to many people that such cases will be dealt with an iron-hand wherever they happen.
Lets hope that other cities also follow AC Hunza’s lead and bar such people from ruining quality family time for thousands of vacationers countrywide. After all, with the increasing spate of foreign tourists that are coming to Pakistan recently, we need to make a great first impression.
