Is Sexual Harassment Still a Major Issue in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Education Sector?
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Synopsis
Sexual harassment in educational institutions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains a pressing concern, with victims often facing intimidation and inadequate support from internal committees. This situation raises questions about the effectiveness of legal protections and the overall safety of students in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Sexual harassment is a critical issue in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's educational institutions.
- Many victims face intimidation and pressure from internal committees.
- The Protection Against Harassment Act is in place but poorly enforced.
- Victims often suffer severe psychological distress.
- Statistical data indicates a troubling trend of underreporting and inadequate support.
Islamabad, Jan 20 (NationPress) The pervasive issue of sexual harassment continues to affect educational institutions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, as numerous victims assert that internal committees do not offer justice, as reported by local media.
Many complainants encounter pressure, intimidation, and institutional silence instead of the protection they need, forcing them to either retract their complaints or remain silent to safeguard their futures, as highlighted by The Express Tribune. In recent years, a number of colleges and universities have documented various harassment cases, yet victims insist that the system intended to safeguard them has largely failed.
A female student, speaking anonymously to The Express Tribune, shared her experience of filing a complaint after facing harassment from a teacher.
The victim stated, "I adhered to the procedure and submitted a formal complaint, but instead of receiving assistance, I was pressured by the department and members of the harassment committee. The pressure was so overwhelming that I ultimately had to withdraw my case."
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has implemented the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010, following its passage by the National Assembly. According to this law, every institution must establish a harassment committee to impartially hear complaints and render justice after considering both parties. However, the reporting of various harassment incidents from educational institutions suggests that the law's enforcement is notably weak.
Victims report that harassment committees often support influential faculty members, leaving them isolated. In several instances, complaints of harassment within educational institutions have led to severe psychological distress among victims, with some students tragically committing suicide. Many victims opt to remain silent due to familial pressure, fear of social stigma, and worries about their academic futures.
Data from the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Ombudsperson's Office revealed that 169 harassment complaints were logged in the province in 2024. Nationwide, 823 harassment cases were reported in Pakistan from July 2023 to June 2024, as per the Federal Ombudsperson for Women. The statistics showed 219 cases each from Punjab and Islamabad, 28 cases from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 69 from Sindh, and seven from Balochistan.
Point of View
I acknowledge the grave implications of sexual harassment within our educational institutions. The ongoing challenges faced by victims highlight a critical need for reform and accountability. We must collectively advocate for a safer environment for all students and ensure that justice is not just an ideal, but a reality.
NationPress
20/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of sexual harassment in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's educational institutions?
Sexual harassment remains a significant issue, with many victims claiming that internal committees fail to provide justice.
How are victims treated when they report harassment?
Victims often face intimidation and pressure, leading many to withdraw their complaints.
What legal protections exist for victims?
The Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act mandates the establishment of harassment committees in institutions, but enforcement is weak.
What statistics are available regarding harassment cases?
In 2024, 169 harassment complaints were reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with 823 cases reported nationwide from July 2023 to June 2024.
What impact does harassment have on victims?
Victims often experience severe psychological distress, with some tragically committing suicide.
