Tribeswomen in Mohmand briefed on oppressive nature of FCR

Patriarchal nature of jirgas also analysed in session

SHABQADAR: The first-ever awareness session on the Frontier Crimes Regulation for women was held in Mohmand Agency. In addition to the law, the patriarchal nature of jirgas was also analysed.

A Fata student organisation's women wing had organised a session on Monday in Ekka Ghund subdivision, Mohmand. Funded by CGPA, the women wing will go to various agencies and frontier regions in Fata to mobilise women against the FCR, a colonial law which limits the extension of justice to the region.

Discussing the session and hurdles in the way of achieving their goal, women wing president Shumaila Javed said she led the awareness talk which a large number of women attended. She said the session revolved around how the FCR denies basic human rights. According to Javed, participants were made aware of how they are the main victims of the black law as the judiciary is not extended to Fata, a bare minimum needed to achieve justice.

Javed said the organisation took the step to sensitise women in the tribal areas so they can demand rights which cannot be guaranteed in the presence of the FCR. "Tribal voices have been suppressed, be it men or women. Our aim to bring awareness, to help give tribespeople a voice which can be heard."

She added women in Fata wanted to talk about their rights. "We are hopeful Fata's women will stand up for their rights in future."

Touching upon the jirga system, Javed said it a male dominated one, and women have no representation. When the jirga is held over disputes related women, women are never taken into confidence, she added.

"We believe women are the main victims of the FCR," said Javed. She said she is hopeful the session participants will give feedback. "Women in Fata are now getting an education - they will raise a voice for their rights."