A 14-year-old boy was tortured to death at an unregistered madrassa in Swat, igniting public protests and a renewed call for regulation.
What was meant to be a place of learning turned into a site of horror for 14-year-old Farhan Ayaz, who died after being brutally beaten at a madrassa in Khwazakhela, Swat. According to reports, Farhan was subjected to severe torture by three teachers- the head cleric, his son, and a colleague – for missing classes.
The assault left him critically injured. He was rushed to Tehsil Headquarters Hospital but died soon after. A postmortem confirmed that he had been beaten to death.
The madrassa, which was operating without any formal registration, has since been sealed by local authorities. AC Luqman Khan confirmed that the seminary was unregistered and stressed that legal action would follow. ‘We’re also coordinating with law enforcement agencies for further legal action’ he said, adding that the administration would ensure madrassas across the region are brought under scrutiny.
News of Farhan’s death quickly spread through the region, triggering widespread protests in Khwazakhela and Matta. Residents, including local elders, blocked roads and gathered in large numbers to demand swift justice and immediate arrests. One of the accused has been detained, while two others remain at large.
Farhan’s family, devastated by the loss, also criticized the police for failing to name all three suspects in the FIR. They revealed that Farhan had previously complained about abuse at the madrassa, but no action was taken.
Local clerics and rights groups have spoken out, condemning the incident and calling for immediate reforms. Many emphasized that no religious institution should function without oversight and that Islamic teachings categorically reject any form of violence or torture.
Social activist and lawyer Jibran Nasir condemned the brutal killing of a boy by madrassah teachers, calling it a reflection of toxic masculinity and urging systemic change across society to address this violent mindset.
This tragedy has once again raised questions about the lack of regulation and accountability in many privately-run religious schools. As Farhan’s family grieves, the public continues to demand more than promises. They want change, justice, and safety for every child stepping into a classroom.
Sources: Dialogue Pakistan, The News, Pro Pakistani
