On July 15, playwright Khalilur Rehman Qamar found himself at the center of a scandal after visiting Amina Urooj’s house at night. Despite his claims of a medical condition necessitating nighttime work, Qamar’s decision to visit a woman’s house alone raised eyebrows. What transpired next became fodder for social media outrage. According to Qamar, he was ambushed by armed men upon arrival, marking the start of a shocking ordeal.
The Abduction and Video
After an obscene video of Khalilur Rehman was leaked, Qamar claimed that two individuals forced him at gunpoint into an indecent situation with Amina Urooj, an active member of the alleged gang. “They forced me to take off my shirt,” he recounted, insisting he was coerced into the scenario.
However, despite his claims of immense pressure, many questioned the veracity of his account, considering his known history of misogynistic remarks and controversial scripts. Critics argue that Qamar willingly participated in the incident and is now making excuses to salvage his reputation.
Skepticism grew as the video went viral, leading many to believe Qamar’s narrative was crafted to deflect from his own actions. His nocturnal visit to a woman’s house seemed less a matter of medical necessity and more a choice he made willingly.
As the video spread online, condemnation of Qamar was swift and widespread. Critics highlighted his history of verbal attacks on women and the misogynistic themes often present in his scripts. The alleged kidnappers countered his claims, stating they possessed more indecent videos of him with Amina Urooj. This further fueled public suspicion that Qamar’s version of events was a fabrication to cover up his involvement. Despite the backlash, Qamar maintained his stance, though many saw his explanations as mere excuses.
Qamar’s Response
An FIR, filed on July 21, described Qamar’s abduction and robbery. According to the report, Qamar was assaulted, robbed of his mobile phone, watch, and Rs250,000 from his ATM card before being abandoned in a deserted area.
Qamar’s response to the video’s circulation was to file a complaint with the Cyber Crime Wing of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). He alleged deception and blackmail, claiming the videos were circulated when he refused to pay the gang. The FIA confirmed receiving the complaint and initiated an investigation. Meanwhile, the police arrested 12 suspects, including the main accused Hassan Shah, in connection with the case. Yet, public opinion remained divided, with many doubting Qamar’s victim narrative.
This incident has brought to light the complexities of Qamar’s public persona. Known for his controversial and often misogynistic scripts, his actions have frequently sparked criticism. Many argue that his attempt to paint himself as a victim is consistent with his past behavior and the choices he made on the night in question.
Seeking Justice or Deflection?
As the investigation continues, Khalilur Rehman Qamar’s quest for justice appears to be as much about reclaiming his tarnished reputation as it is about finding the truth. His narrative of coercion and deceit is viewed with skepticism, especially given his history of inflammatory comments about women. Critics contend that his current plight is self-inflicted, stemming from a pattern of behavior that finally caught up with him.
Read More: ‘It’s a thunderbolt,’ say Palestinians of Hamas chief’s killing
The case has ignited a broader discussion about accountability and the portrayal of women in media. It calls for greater scrutiny of individuals who hold significant influence and their responsibility to uphold ethical standards. As authorities probe deeper, the public remains watchful, hoping for clarity and justice in a saga muddied by conflicting accounts and a controversial figure at its center.