100 lashes in the Maldives

     A teenage girl in the Maldives who was repeatedly raped by her stepfather is being ordered to receive 100 lashes after she confessed to having had premarital sex with another man. Under the country's laws, premarital sex is seen as a crime, and those found guilty are often lashed at. Prior to this sentencing, the girl gave birth to her stepfather's baby who he allegedly killed and buried in a shower area in their home. During the questioning, the teenage reportedly confessed to having consensual sex with another male, who is unknown to have been charged. The young girls father faces up to 25 years in jail if he is convicted of rape and murder. The lashing will occur once the girl turns 18 but has the choice to get it over with if she chooses to. A spokesman for the President stated that she will not be lashed at to cause her pain but rather for her to feel the shame in engaging in an activity forbidden by the religion.
     It shocks me that they would punish a young girl for premarital sex publicly. Especially since she was raped by her own step-father. This poor girl should receive counseling or some type of help regarding the horrific events that have already happened to her instead of getting publicly beaten. The government is considering changing the law, and it can be done easily with a majority vote in the parliament. Even though the father still may be punished for his own actions, this shows how there is inequality for women based on punishment. The article did not state whether the Maldives punished males for the same types of 'crime' according to their religion, but this is a good example as the stepfather will most likely not be lashed (hit) publicly.

Source:
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/sentenced-to-100-lashes-in-the-maldives-15yearold-girl-raped-by-stepfather-who-then-murdered-baby-8513293.html