Justice Demanded for Shanti Kumari Maheshwari: Karachi Protest Highlights Medical Negligence and Domestic Abuse
Jyoti Maheshwari
Karachi
A peaceful protest erupted today outside Anklesaria Hospital in Karachi, where dozens of demonstrators gathered to demand justice for Shanti Kumari Maheshwari, a 19-year-old woman who tragically died following alleged domestic violence and medical negligence.
Protest and Allegations
The protest was organized by the Maheshwari Action Committee, Shanti Justice Committee, social activists, members of the Hindu community, and concerned citizens. Their anger was directed at Dr. Farukh Shaikh, who allegedly discharged Shanti from the hospital while she was still in critical condition in the ICU. Protesters accused the hospital of negligence and of failing to respond to repeated pleas from Shanti’s family.
Timeline of Tragedy
- June 15, 2025: Shanti married Ashok Kumar.
- June 17–18: She was allegedly subjected to brutal physical and sexual abuse by her husband, including assault with a metal object.
- June 30: Her family retrieved her from her in-laws’ home in a severely deteriorated state.
- July 4: Admitted to Civil Hospital Karachi’s Trauma Centre.
- July 23: Passed away after nearly three weeks in a coma.
Legal Action
An FIR was filed on July 5 under Sections 376-B (rape) and 324 (attempted murder). Ashok Kumar was arrested on July 6 and remains in custody. A video testimony recorded by Shanti before her death has been submitted for forensic analysis.
Medical Negligence
Activists and family members allege that Shanti was initially taken to a private hospital where her injuries were concealed rather than treated. The hospital reportedly discharged her prematurely and failed to report the abuse, violating the Amal Umer Act of 2019, which mandates emergency care without police paperwork.
Public Outcry
The hashtag #JusticeForShanti has trended nationwide. Women’s rights organizations, including Aurat March and Women’s Action Forum, have condemned the systemic failures that led to Shanti’s death. They are demanding:
- Prosecution of Ashok Kumar and his family.
- Accountability for medical staff involved.
- Legal recognition of marital rape as a criminal offense.
