The strength of the judicial system of the country determines the appreciation of Justice in the state. The convenience of the ordinary people brought through empowerment of the system. The recent judicial crisis in Pakistan has come to an end. With many promises remaining to be fulfilled, A historic event which caught eyes of billions globally. A struggle to reinstate the sanctity of Judicial system and to empower the ordinary people. The movement was heavily backed by civil society and human right activist. Every victim saw a ray of hope in the struggle of Judiciary. Hence the voice of Judicial reinstatement was strengthened with the plea of the victims. However strict measures were taken to suppress the voice of the people.

The movement was strengthened by backing of individuals irrespective of age, background and gender. The protests were carried out by women human right activists, students and lawyers equally. The recent events witnessed manhandling of women protesters by the police . The manhandling continued haunting even those on high authorities. Musarat Hilai Prominent woman lawyer and vice-chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan was allegedly manhandled during a late night raid at her house. She has reported to have suffered a fractured leg. While dozens of other prominent women were manhandled and arrested. The authorities were later apologetic but still had no valid reasons to backup the actions. Upon the media addressing the issue nobody was seen to take the claim for carrying out orders.

This reflects a vivid sabotage of democracy and freedom of opinion. Women in Pakistan have to struggle to gain the same respect as men I even if they thoroughly deserve it. Ismat Mehdi an advocate at the supreme court expressed her opinion of the lawyers movement in a causal discussion ‘ We don’t want to create commotion , it hurts me deeply to watch news alerts about courts being closed down. Its frustrating specially if one has been dedicatedly committed to their work even during the struggle’. Women like Ismat Mehdi and Musarat hilai embody dedication towards their work despite of the odds.

The unfortunate incidents add up to the sabotage against women’s freedom to speak. The state is strictly criticized for lacking discipline towards female protesters. However the crackdown sparked enthusiasm among the protesters. Thousands took the road to openly protest against the atrocities. The zeal of the people triumphed against the government and the decision was made in favour of the judiciary. The victory reflected the struggle of the nation whose women stood by men in this historic tussle between Justice and Power.

Sana Saleem