Eshal Fatima’s death reignites fury over gender violence

Islamabad: The death of 17-year-old Eshal Fatima in Jhang has prompted fresh public anger over the safety of women and girls in Pakistan, with actors, singers, activists and social media users calling for accountability and a full investigation.

According to the first information report lodged by her father, Eshal, a first-year college student, left home on June 4 after a neighbour contacted her and said she would be taken to Multan to buy clothes. She did not return, and her family’s efforts to reach her failed because her mobile phone was switched off.

The case took a further turn on June 7, when family members received a call saying that Eshal’s condition had worsened and that she had been admitted to a private hospital. She was later taken to the District Headquarters Hospital, where she died. Her death led to allegations from the family that she had been abducted days earlier.

Public reaction and calls for accountability

As the case drew wider attention, several public figures from Pakistan’s entertainment industry used their platforms to demand justice and raise broader concerns about violence against women.

Singer Hadiqa Kiani called for swift action and described Eshal as another victim of violence against women, while also drawing attention to statistics related to abuse against women. Actor Sabeena Farooq voiced anger over gender-based violence and criticised social attitudes that place scrutiny on women instead of focusing on those accused of crimes. Her posts referred to harassment, acid attacks, honour killings and discrimination.

Actor Momina Iqbal also criticised what she described as victim-blaming, saying women are often judged for their choices and character while the focus shifts away from perpetrators. Her comments were widely shared by users who said such attitudes can discourage victims and their families from pursuing justice.

Actor Mishi Khan questioned delays in the legal system and called for quicker trials and harsher punishment for offenders. During a visit to the United Kingdom, actor Mahira Khan also spoke out in anger over violence against women and urged men to play a stronger role in condemning abuse and supporting efforts to stop it.

Post-mortem findings and wider debate

A preliminary post-mortem report said there was no evidence of sexual assault or physical violence on Eshal’s body. The report also stated that she was diabetic and had been using insulin for several years.

Despite those initial findings, the circumstances of her death have continued to fuel concern and demands for a thorough inquiry. The case has also broadened into a larger public discussion about women’s safety, accountability and the need for stronger protections for vulnerable citizens in Pakistan.