KARACHI:
Women doctors play a vital role in the healthcare system, particularly in a country where cultural norms often make female healthcare providers essential for women patients. Despite their invaluable contributions, many continue to face harassment, threats, workplace insecurity and even violent attacks.
The recent acid attack in Quetta has raised serious questions about the safety of women in the medical profession. Such incidents, while leaving victims with lifelong physical and mental scars, also discourage women from entering the medical field and undermine efforts to improve healthcare services across the country. At a time when Pakistan already faces a shortage of healthcare professionals, the loss of qualified women doctors would have serious consequences.
The government must ensure strict punishment for perpetrators of acid attacks and violence against women. Security measures at hospitals and healthcare facilities should be strengthened and comprehensive support services should be provided to victims.
A society that fails to protect its doctors jeopardises its own future. Women doctors deserve respect, security and the freedom to serve their communities without fear.
Naikbakth Bijjar
Shapuk
