Peasants' body demands action against child marriages, GBV

HYDERABAD:

The Hari Welfare Association (HWA) has called for immediate action to curb child marriages and gender-based violence (GBV) in rural Sindh, warning that weak enforcement of laws and lack of awareness are continuing to put women and children at risk.

Speaking at a dialogue in village Gangaram of district Mirpurkhas, HWA President Akram Ali Khaskheli said, "Domestic violence and early marriages are on the rise." He pointed out that many rural families in Mirpurkhas do not possess Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) or B-Forms, which not only restrict children's access to education but also fuel underage marriages.

Khaskheli emphasized that grassroots forums are playing a vital role in helping villagers secure documentation and learn about their rights, but stronger government action is urgently needed.

Bhau Singh, a resident of Gangaram, explained that the absence of B-Forms had wasted valuable academic years for many children. "To enroll our children in school, B-Forms are required. Since we didn't have them, they were left behind. With the guidance of the Aawaz program through the village forum, we are now ensuring the availability of the required documents," he said.