Is Gender-Based Violence Rising in Pakistan's Sindh?
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Synopsis
The Women Action Forum's latest report indicates a disturbing rise in gender-based violence cases in Sindh, Pakistan. With over 2,500 incidents reported, activists are alarmed by the government's inadequate response. This article delves into the findings and highlights the voices of those affected.
Key Takeaways
- 2,564 cases of gender-based violence reported in Sindh.
- Majority of perpetrators are family members.
- Women feel unprotected due to government inaction.
- Significant increase in honour killings.
- Victims often face challenges in reporting incidents.
Islamabad, Aug 4 (NationPress) Reports from the Women Action Forum (WAF) indicate a troubling surge in gender-based violence incidents within Pakistan's Sindh province, as highlighted in their 2021-24 report.
Entitled ‘Counting the Wounds’, the report reveals that a total of 2,564 cases of gender-based violence were documented in Sindh, showcasing a continuous increase in such incidents. According to Pakistan's prominent daily, Dawn, the WAF was actively involved in monitoring 70 percent of these cases through various media channels.
During a recent gathering attended by rights activists, journalists, development professionals, and academics, concerns were raised regarding the alarming rise in cases of gender-based violence, including suicide, murder, honour killings, and harassment.
The WAF noted that many women feel unprotected due to the government’s lackadaisical attitude toward these cases, with police sometimes becoming complicit due to inadequate investigations. In a staggering 90 percent of incidents, the perpetrators were found to be family members of the victims.
WAF leader Amar Sindhu highlighted the significant rise in honour killings, drawing attention to the fact that most accused individuals are related to the women involved.
Arfana Mallah emphasized that these statistics represent profound ‘wounds’ on the faces of those affected, adding that police often fail to register FIRs for victims. She remarked, 'Only the SSP concerned responds to such crimes, but eventually, the case loses momentum.'
Haseen Massarat pointed out the increasing incidence of sexual abuse among minors and accused police of leaving victims vulnerable to media scrutiny, while men generally show little interest in the suffering of abused women.
Notably, poet Khalida Munir mentioned a significant uptick in suicides among women in 2023, stating that women continue to face violence under the guise of marriage.
Shahnaz Sheedi criticized the treatment of women in society, likening their status to that of animals. Views were also shared by Ismail Kumbhar, Suleman Abro, Ghurfrana Arain from the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), and Ramesh Kumar Gupta, shedding light on this pressing issue.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the alarming trends in gender-based violence in Sindh. The findings from the Women Action Forum highlight not only the statistics but also the human suffering behind them. Our society must confront these issues head-on, advocating for women's rights and demanding accountability from authorities. It is imperative that we support initiatives aimed at protecting the vulnerable and fostering a safer environment for all citizens.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main finding of the WAF report?
The WAF report revealed that Sindh province recorded 2,564 cases of gender-based violence, indicating a significant rise in such incidents.
What are the common forms of gender-based violence reported?
Common forms include suicide, murder, honour killings, and harassment.
Who are the perpetrators in most cases?
In 90 percent of the cases, the perpetrators are often family members of the victims.
What challenges do victims face when reporting these incidents?
Many victims face inadequate police response, with FIRs often not being filed, leaving them vulnerable.
How can society address the issue of gender-based violence?
Society must advocate for women's rights, hold authorities accountable, and support initiatives aimed at protecting vulnerable individuals.
