Killing babies
The heart-wrenching issue of newborn babies and infants being discarded into trash bins in Pakistan is a grim reflection of a society grappling with immense social and economic challenges. This deeply disturbing and abhorrent practice continues to claim innocent lives, leaving us to question the very essence of humanity. As we confront this crisis head-on, it is high time we address the root causes and reinforce laws that can put an end to this tragedy.
The statistics surrounding newborn disposal in Pakistan are alarming. According to a report by the Edhi Foundation, an estimated 1,200 infants are abandoned every year, with the numbers on the rise. The reasons behind these gruesome acts may be multifaceted, ranging from poverty and lack of education to cultural stigmas surrounding illegitimate births. A significant percentage of newborns are abandoned due to societal pressures, coupled with the lack of proper support systems for struggling parents. To effectively address this issue, we must first raise awareness and offer support to struggling parents. Community-based programs, in collaboration with NGOs and governmental agencies, should be implemented to educate families about reproductive health, family planning, and the rights of children. Moreover, stringent laws and penalties must be put in place. Therefore, we call upon lawmakers to review and strengthen these laws, ensuring they serve as a powerful deterrent against this abominable practice.
Furthermore, the issue of newborn disposal should be tackled at its roots by addressing the underlying socio-economic issues that drive parents to make such desperate decisions. Poverty, lack of healthcare, and limited access to education must be addressed to create an environment where families are better equipped to care for their children.
Published in The Express Tribune, July 6th, 2023.
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