Case No. 9 has hit the right chords with the latest episode, as it nullifies using a woman’s character and background as a shield against her in a rape case. The power-packed court sequences in episode 17 showcase judgment readings from Pakistani courts, enabling women to fight their cases without being judged on character and morality.
The prosecution lawyer, Beenish(Amina Sheikh), quotes remarks from renowned real-life judges, Justice Ayesha Malik and Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, who have played a vital role in evolving rape case hearings and judgments in Pakistan.
When Kamran(Faysal Qureshi) is pushing Sehar(Saba Qamar) to be a divorcee and trapping him in a false case, Beenish puts forward Justice Ayesha Malik’s January 2020 rape case judgement, where she emphasised keeping the focus on whether the crime was committed or not instead of using the victim’s character as a leverage. She further said that in such cases, the victim’s well-being must be ensured.
Beenish also quoted another Supreme Court judgement by Justice Mansoor Ali Shah in 2021, in which he also stated that the woman’s character and sexual activity should not be brought into discussion when investigating whether the crime had occurred or not. He further stated that a woman’s virginity is not the epitome of her character, hence it should not be a point of discussion in court or investigation. Beenish further referred to the Anti Rape Investigation and Trial Act 2021, according to which any evidence of ill character cannot be presented as evidence in court for a rape trial.
Viewers are in awe of the script and structured approach towards rape cases and their sensitivity. Citing real-life case judgments ensures the audience understands the law and the processes involved in any rape case. They appreciate the writer, Shahzaib Khanzada, for revealing the reality of a court hearing. A user wrote on X:
Another took to X to applaud the effort to bring up taboo and uncomfortable conversations to our television screens, he wrote:
The way Case No. 9 has highlighted victim-blaming culture and a similar approach in court hearings has also impressed many viewers. A user commented:
Another commented to applaud the makers for highlighting the real reasons behind rape, the display of power. They stated:
Another added:
Moreover, people urge everyone to watch this drama serial to understand the complexities of such sensitive crime cases. A user said:
Another urged women to watch it as the drama serial gives out a clear message that no means no and posted:
