When the going gets tough, even the tough get going. Reportedly, actress Uzma Khan has decided to go for a settlement in the case against Malik Riaz’s extended family. This fact was also brought up by lawyer-activist Khadija Siddiqui, who was representing Uzma. She has now distanced herself from this case.
Sources allege that another video of two women, one of them allegedly Uzma Khan, was leaked to blackmail her. This was followed by a backlash from the public. Some even went as far as to use this moral debate to undermine the criminal offenses of Amna Usman against Uzma Khan.
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Previously Uzma Khan had mentioned that she was being offered settlements and even her lawyers were under immense pressure.
Where Is #UzmaKhan? What Deal Has Been Offered To Her After FIR Against #MalikRiaz Daughters. Who Is Pressurizing Her Counsel Hassan Niazi? – Here Is Live Interview
.https://t.co/ZOTg3EdXQu
. pic.twitter.com/Wqg3QdFevb— Mian Dawood (@miandawoodadv) May 29, 2020
One of her legal representatives Hassan Niazi even called out people to keep this a legal debate rather than try and defame the victims with scandalous photographs and videos. However, the video leaked by Irfan Ahson did just that.
Plz keep this #UzmaCase legal. It’s humble request don’t attack any female’s character. Putting videos pictures of females who have families and futures. Let’s keep this debate legal. I condemn personal attacks on Both the complainant and accused of the case.
— Hassaan Niazi (@HniaziISF) May 31, 2020
As the pressure built up Uzma Khan finally gave in to a settlement. But not before one last statement explaining her dilemma.
“This case could end without me getting justice ever. BUT ALLAH’s justice will be done in his court and then no one can pressurize me,”
https://twitter.com/uzmaaaK/status/1267178353129332736
Amid this activist, Khadija Siddiqui, one of the few that stepped up to support Uzma Khan’s legal battle, dissociated herself from her client.
This is to announce that we are disassociating from #UzmaKhan case.I understand the reasons of any settlement by two aggrieved women in a rigged system,my conscience doesn’t allow me to be part of any of that,even in a professional capacity.
Struggle against lawlessness continues— khadija siddiqi (@khadijasid751) June 1, 2020
While accepting the reasons behind settlement in Pakistan’s rigged system, her struggle against lawlessness wouldn’t allow her to represent Uzma Khan.
“I understand the reasons of any settlement by two aggrieved women in a rigged system,my conscience doesn’t allow me to be part of any of that.”
On the other hand, netizens suggested that settlement isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
https://twitter.com/mahababarghani/status/1267519144154587137
There is no shame in settlement, as long as both parties are satisfied. Better for the peace of society.
— Saira (@Saira63481844) June 1, 2020
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Others pointed out how problematic a settlement really is, suggesting outcomes of a lawsuit can be bought.
https://twitter.com/walstreetblues/status/1267663685872504833
btw! jami sab she did what was right without thinking about the outcome, she stood against the most powerful…..
ab har bnda "Petrol Pump" wali bat ignore kr ka nokri bachana ka qayil nhi hta! Regards. 🙏🏻— ع (@itsammartarik) June 1, 2020
We as a nation are a cheap sellout! Malik Riaz just happens to know the price label and how to pay!
Dont be disheartened! #UzmaKhan #malikriaz— Usman (@Musmanzee) June 1, 2020
Disappointed but ye to hona hee tha. Her boyfriend abandoned her, that Malik Riaz daughter fled the country, courts would've never pursued the case. Hope #UzmaKhan and her sister move on from this, find happiness, security and better men
— Hina Khan (@cesthinakhan) June 1, 2020
Others were supportive towards Khadija Siddiqui stating that some things are just lessons.
People like you have made it complex, As their lawyer, she could have struck a multi million out of court settlement, plus an apology from his daughters.
— pepperbox (@secondaid2) June 1, 2020
What an utter waste of time and drama. Extremely disappointed in @uzmaaaK
— Vanessa Alam (@vanessaalam2) June 1, 2020
What’s your take on this?
