Tougher action sought on violence against women

The National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW), chaired by Noureen Bano Lehri, held a high-level meeting with senior police officials from across Pakistan to review the alarming rise in violence, rape, murder, harassment and other forms of gender-based violence against women and girls.

The Chairperson expressed grave concern over the increasing incidents and took strict notice of cases including the Hina Javed, Ayat Noor and Asma Jattak cases, as well as recent cases in Sindh, including the tragic deaths of three-year-old Kulsoom Mohammed Qasim and 18-month-old Aizal in Karachi. The Commission also expressed concern over the recently reported sexual assault of a nine-year-old girl in Shikarpur, whose identity has not been disclosed.

Lehri directed police authorities to ensure swift, transparent and merit-based investigations, effective prosecution and timely justice in every case involving violence against women and girls. She stressed that every case must be pursued to its logical conclusion and that negligence, delay or failure in investigation will not be tolerated.

The commission called for special courts or dedicated judicial mechanisms for GBV cases to ensure speedy disposal of cases and prevent prolonged delays in justice.

The NCSW further directed enhanced police patrolling, surveillance and preventive measures in areas where women and girls face threats, both inside and outside their homes. "Women across Pakistan should be made fully aware of available police services, complaint mechanisms and emergency avenues for seeking protection and immediate relief," she said.

The commission called for effective monitoring of madaris, schools, colleges, universities and other educational institutions to prevent harassment, abuse and violence, alongside comprehensive GBV awareness and prevention programmes for students. Particular emphasis was placed on educating and sensitising boys and young men so that they grow into responsible citizens and protectors of women and girls rather than perpetrators or harassers.