Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, has come under intense political scrutiny after his grandson, Muhammad Raza Dar, was arrested in connection with the alleged gang rape of two foreign women in Lahore. The case has sparked a political storm in Pakistan, with opposition leaders demanding accountability and questioning the government’s commitment to the rule of law.
According to Pakistani media reports cited by PTI, Lahore Police arrested four suspects in connection with the alleged assault, while a fifth accused remains absconding. A Lahore court has remanded the arrested individuals, including Muhammad Raza Dar, to five-day police custody to facilitate further investigation.
Alleged Incident
The alleged offence relates to an incident that reportedly took place on June 29 in Lahore. Investigators claim the two complainants—one a Venezuelan national and the other from the Netherlands—had travelled to Pakistan after being invited by Muhammad Raza Dar, who allegedly knew them through a cryptocurrency business venture established during a meeting in Singapore last year.
Reports indicate that business visas were arranged for the women before their arrival in Pakistan. The police are currently examining the circumstances leading to the alleged crime and the role of each accused. Authorities have not publicly disclosed further evidence as the investigation remains ongoing.
Political Backlash Intensifies
The arrest has quickly escalated into a political controversy. Pakistani Senator Faisal Vawda publicly demanded Ishaq Dar’s resignation, arguing that the Deputy Prime Minister cannot continue representing Pakistan internationally while his close family member faces allegations in such a serious criminal case.
Vawda further alleged that influential political figures were attempting to shield the accused and criticised both the federal government and the Punjab provincial administration. In a post on social media, he described Pakistan as being “run like a family corporation” and questioned the government’s handling of the investigation.
No Official Response from Ishaq Dar
As of the latest available information, Ishaq Dar has not issued any detailed public statement addressing the allegations against his grandson. Pakistani authorities have also not indicated any political or administrative action against the Deputy Prime Minister in connection with the case.
Investigation Continues
Law enforcement agencies have stated that the investigation is continuing and that efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining suspect. The allegations have not yet been tested in court, and the accused are presumed innocent unless proven guilty through due legal process.
The case has drawn widespread attention in Pakistan because of the high-profile political connection and has renewed public debate over whether influential individuals receive preferential treatment during criminal investigations. The progress of the police probe and subsequent judicial proceedings will be closely watched in the coming days.
