KARACHI:
Every morning millions of women get up and start their lives, but for many fear is an unspoken part of their daily routine. Some women experience violence, discrimination and limitations in their lives that are often hidden behind the walls of the “average” house. They may have dreams, aspirations, goals and views, but they are often silenced.
Violence against women has become an all too common problem in Pakistan. It can be found in a variety of different expressions. In some cases, girls are married early, without their consent, before they are ready to take on responsibilities and enjoy their childhood. Some girls are married off too early, without their wishes, and start a life before they are prepared. Domestic violence or dowry-related violence occur to some women. Others lose their right to divorce, or are threatened in the name of the family honor. Some of the most shocking examples of the wreckage of women’s lives caused by harmful traditions and extreme attitudes are acid attacks and honour-based violence.
Suppose a young girl wishes to further her education but is told that her sole duty is to get married. Suppose a woman who wants to break away from an abusive relationship is forced to be silent by her family and society. They might be disparate, but they are all the same in one thing: they all prohibit women from freedom of choice.
While there have been more awareness campaigns and women empowerment initiatives, the issue itself has not gone away. Women continue to be criticised for speaking up and others continue to suffer in silence, for fear of losing family support or being subjected to additional violence.
Awareness alone is not enough to effect change. Women’s rights and dignity must be protected through the concerted efforts of the family, the school, the community and the government. There is a need to enforce laws, provide victims with access to justice and educate youth that respect and equality is key values.
There is no real progress in a society where women live in fear. It will be the day of real change when women can speak, study, work and decide without fear.
Joti Kataria
Jacobabad
