KARACHI:
Violence and abuse against women have been on the rise in Pakistan. Even basic human rights are a privilege for most Pakistani women. Pakistan has regularly been ranked as one of the most dangerous countries for women. At present, women are subjected to kidnapping, physical and sexual abuse, domestic violence, gang rape, marital rape and murder. Women live in extremely dire circumstances and face the risk of violence every day.
Although, the society claims to have granted women the same status and rights as provided by Islam, this is far from reality. Official figures for violence and abuse against women are suspected to be much higher than are reported. Police brutality against women in both urban and rural areas is also significantly rising. In many cases, police have refused to help women. A plethora of the existing laws and cosmetic measures undertaken by the federal and provincial governments have failed to protect the life and limb of Pakistani women.
Pakistan gained independence some 74 years ago, but women and children are still not independent or safe. What the country needs is an overhaul of the entire system and culture. Islam has granted women an esteemed position, which the society has failed to give us. Crimes against women should not be overlooked, perpetrators should be brought to justice. The government needs to ensure that women are protected by the law and given equal rights. Women must be empowered through systems and laws first, before we attempt to change the cultural narrative around it.
Shiza Imdad
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, August 25th, 2021.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
