In an important step to prevent sexual violence against women and children, the Sindh government has approved the establishment of 27 Anti-Rape Crisis Cells across the province.
According to the official notification, the cells will remain operational round the clock on the lines of medico-legal department and will provide support to men, women, children and transgender people.
The first cell will be set up in the Police Surgeon Office Karachi as a pilot project. Police Surgeon Dr. Samia told The Express Tribune that the cell would provide medico-legal certificates, psychological support, and legal services to sexual abuse victims.
Dr. Samia confirmed that they have received the equipment required for the first cell.
This will be followed by another cell at Jinnah Hospital Karachi in March 2023. These cells are being set up under the Anti-Rape Investigation and Trial Act 2021, according to Dr. Samia. A cell will also be inaugurated in the police surgeon's office soon.
As per the notification, two cells will be established in Hyderabad Divisions and one each in Sukkur, Larkana, and Shaheed Benazirabad Divisions.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 30th, 2022.
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