Securing women's shelters

Listen to article

The Lahore High Court's recent directive to remove all nonessential male staff from shelter homes for women marks a necessary shift in the approach to protecting vulnerable populations. The decision follows serious allegations of sexual exploitation within these facilities and highlights the urgent need for systemic changes to safeguard women and children in state care.

For too long, the safety of residents in these shelters has been compromised by the presence of male staff in environments that should prioritise security and comfort for women and children fleeing abuse and neglect. The allegations in the recent case brought to light the potential dangers that lurk in settings intended for protection and recovery. Although a Punjab government inspection team cleared the accused and instead pointed fingers at the accuser - claiming misconduct on her part - the court's ruling underscores a broader concern: the need to create spaces where women feel safe and supported without the threat of exploitation.

Justice Tariq Saleem Sheikh's guidelines go beyond simply addressing immediate concerns; they call for comprehensive reform. The directions to formulate rules under the Punjab Protection of Women against Violence Act and the Punjab Women Protection Authority Act signify a proactive stance toward regulatory measures that could drastically improve the living conditions in shelters. Establishing mandatory women's protection committees and ensuring the training of protection officers are crucial steps toward creating a system where women are not only protected but empowered.

However, while the removal of male staff is a critical step, it is equally important to address the underlying issues that lead to such vulnerabilities. Protecting women from abuse inside or outside shelters cannot be the sole responsibility of the facilities themselves; it requires a societal shift in how we view and treat women and children in distress, namely by eradicating the stigma surrounding those who seek help.