There is a saying that the greatest protection a woman can ever have is courage. Sehar embodied this courage when she stood before the world to demand her rights and seek justice. Case No. 9 is not merely a drama—it is the painful reality of countless girls.

Unfortunately, rape cases are increasing in our society, while punishments continue to decrease. Most victims are never allowed to raise their voices against the violence inflicted upon them. They are silenced immediately, reminded of their father’s and brother’s “honor,” and pressured into quiet suffering. Even when a woman somehow gathers the courage to speak out, justice often remains out of reach.

This drama highlights many crucial realities—things that, if known to rape victims, could help them report crimes in time and ensure that the perpetrators are held accountable.

Sehar’s journey is filled with relentless trials. When she first stepped out to file a report, she did so without informing her family, because they refused to support her. When her family eventually came around, the burden only grew heavier. Neighbors and people from the surrounding community began to shame them. Her father and brother were mocked—despite being survivors of the situation, not the criminals.

Sehar also faced unbiased and unfair treatment from the police, a harsh reality in our country where those meant to uphold the law often violate it themselves. She endured vicious character assassination and cruel accusations from the opposing lawyer. On top of that, she had to fight Kamran’s media tactics.

Left with no other option, Sehar chose to speak openly about her case on a live television show.

None of this is easy. Yet despite being a victim of one of the most horrific crimes, women are still expected to endure public scrutiny, humiliation, and endless resistance just to prove their truth. Case No. 9 forces us to confront an uncomfortable reality: for many women, survival is only the beginning of the battle—justice remains the hardest fight of all.

As the critically acclaimed drama approaches its conclusion, the central question remains whether Sehar will ultimately find justice from court and system as well?

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)