Pakistani media figure Anoushey Ashraf spoke out on social media in a strong post that has gone viral, addressing the deep-seated societal problems affecting Punjab, particularly the southern parts of the province.
Her emotionally charged, heartfelt post referred to the murder of Sana Yousuf, and no matter how tragic the case, it takes a crime against a woman, a young woman, for people to realise that something needs to be done.
Speaking Up for the Voiceless
Anoushey’s words were direct and heart-wrenching:
“Many stories coming in from Punjab. Hate saying this, but child rape, catcalling, perversion, and religious extremism are deeply rooted in the province. The south, in particular is pretty bad. And yet, the government does nothing to change this sick mindset. Nothing.”
She certainly did not stop there. Intent on providing survivors a voice, she posted several anonymous stories from those who had experienced trauma, harassment, and abuse, some for many years in silence.
The Stories that Haunt Us
An Internship Disaster (2004)
One alarming account came from a woman suffering predatory behaviour on an internship in Islamabad at 20 years old. The CEO of a highly reputable bank did this to her as she interned with him in his office. She described:
“He began asking extremely inappropriate and personal questions. I was frozen. Afraid. I knew the building was nearly empty…”
Years passed, and the emotional repercussions of that day remained with her always. She had been afraid to say anything then, but Anoushey’s platform made it possible for her now.
The Relationship That Became a Nightmare
Another contributor described an emotionally abusive relationship that escalated to threats and stalking. Her partner tracked her movements and made horrifying threats.
“Be safe when going out… If I can’t have you, no one can.”
Her story highlights how fear can keep victims tied to their abusers long after the end of the relationship.
Inappropriate Behaviour in Public Spaces
One woman shared a horrific incident with a taxi driver who exposed himself. He also had a flashlight to go with it.
Another discussed an even older encounter with a man who flashed her and her family in a busy market in Islamabad.
The assessment of what happened to women in these types of “exposure” incidents is impossible.
Generational Trauma and Cultural Silence
Mothers, sisters, and daughters all had stories of being silenced by family or society. One contributor stated:
“Mothers don’t teach their boys because they’ve been through it themselves… They are enablers. And they don’t even know it.”
This reveals a systemic cycle of denial and suppression that needs to be interrupted.
Boys and Girls, Both Victims
The testimonies are not limited to girls. One was from a young boy who experienced harassment when returning from a religious ceremony; the irony of the setting was unsettlingly brutal.
The narratives illustrate how predators act with impunity, and that boys are not spared either.
Fear as a Constant Companion
Victims report experiencing anxiety and fear that lingers with them long after the events. One individual shared the experience of being constantly harassed while on a bus and threatened with bodily harm:
“I have a knife. If you move or make a sound, I’ll kill you right here.”
The story demonstrates the dire need for safer public spaces in our country.
When Love Turns Deadly
In another story, a young female narrowly avoided the same fear of abduction. Her ex-boyfriend threatened to kill her at gunpoint if she broke up with him. Fortunately, her mother intervened, but it was a terrifying experience.
A Society Crying for Change
As the stories poured in, Anoushey reached a breaking point:
“Emotionally, mentally, and physically exhausted after reading all the messages in my inbox. I’ve tried to share as many as I could… Thank you for writing to me.”
She concluded her message with a heartfelt plea for unity and support:
“Stand up for one another and stand by one another.”
Where Do We Go From Here?
These are not just stories; these are calls for justice, safety, and change. Anoushey Ashraf peeled back the curtain on a reality many have turned a blind eye to. Now, the responsibility lies with society, and most importantly the government, to act.
Silence shields predators. Anoushey’s courage in amplifying these stories allows us to face the ugly truths that lurk in European society. It’s time to listen. It’s time to act. And it’s time to be together.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates