Celebrities demand justice for Waseem Abbas

The tragic death of 15-year-old Muhammad Waseem Abbas in Multan has sparked widespread grief and anger across Pakistan. Several Pakistani celebrities have spoken out against the incident, demanding justice for the teenager and raising serious questions about the protection of vulnerable children.

Actors Yumna Zaidi, Mishi Khan, Ahsan Khan, Sehar Khan and Faizan Sheikh were among the public figures who expressed their concerns on social media. Their reactions have brought renewed attention to child safety, institutional responsibility and the need to hold those responsible for violence accountable under the law.

Waseem was reportedly an orphan living at an orphanage operated by a non-governmental organisation. He had been sent to learn electrical work under a contractor named Tauqeer Nazir, who was working at a private housing society in Multan. According to police, the teenager had been working with the contractor for approximately one week before the tragic incident.

The incident occurred on October 17 following an argument reportedly related to work. Investigators said Waseem attempted to leave the workplace, but the contractor allegedly followed him in a car and struck him with the vehicle. CCTV footage reportedly showed the teenager running away before being hit.

The young boy suffered a severe head injury and died at the scene, according to reports citing rescue officials.

Police arrested Nazir and registered a murder case against him and another suspect, identified as Amjad Ali. Authorities also questioned members of the orphanage administration to investigate the circumstances under which Waseem had been sent to work.

The case remains under investigation, and the allegations against the suspects will be determined through legal proceedings.

Yumna Zaidi expressed her grief and anger through an Instagram story, highlighting the importance of treating orphans with kindness and compassion. Referring to a Quranic verse about the treatment of orphans, she wrote, “Fear of Allah? The consequences will be harsh. So do not oppress the orphan. Ad. Duhaa verse. 9”.

Veteran actor Mishi Khan also questioned the circumstances surrounding the teenager’s death. Expressing her frustration, she raised concerns about why the driver had not stopped and what had caused the boy to run away from the workplace.

She also called attention to weaknesses in the country’s investigation system, suggesting that reforms were needed to address existing shortcomings.

Actor Ahsan Khan also demanded accountability, stressing that justice required the legal system to hold those responsible fully accountable. He emphasised that the lives of vulnerable people should not be treated as less valuable because of their social or financial circumstances.

Meanwhile, Faizan Sheikh expressed his disappointment over the incident with a brief but powerful reaction, writing, “A new low everyday!”

Sehar Khan also shared her feelings about the disturbing incident, saying she struggled to understand the level of cruelty people could show towards others. Her response reflected the shock and sadness felt by many people following the teenager’s death.

Actor Faiza Khan also criticised the situation, linking the tragedy to concerns about the rule of law and accountability in the country.

The celebrities’ reactions have encouraged a wider discussion about the safety of children who depend on institutions and adults for care, education and vocational training. Many people are questioning whether proper checks are carried out before children are sent to workplaces and whether their treatment is monitored afterwards.

Waseem’s death has also raised concerns about whether vulnerable children have safe ways to report mistreatment, seek help or leave workplaces where they feel threatened.

As the investigation continues, the case highlights the importance of effective supervision, responsible caregiving and strong safeguards for children. Institutions that take responsibility for vulnerable young people must ensure their safety and well-being at every stage.

The growing demand for justice reflects a broader concern that no child should be left unprotected. Ensuring accountability and improving safeguards are essential steps towards preventing similar tragedies in the future.

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