Violence against women is a dark and undeniable reality in Paki­stan. It happens with almost the same frequency in rural and urban ar­eas. When it comes to the subju­gation of women, the educated class and the illiterate majority are on the same footing. From harassment at the workplace to honor killing, women are facing abhorable problems. Suc­cessive governments have failed to bring any meaningful change in the state of affairs. The Human Rights Com­mission of Pakistan(HRCP) has paint­ed a dark and horrible picture: 90% of the women in Pakistan are victims of do­mestic violence in their lifetime. This si­lent epidemic must be paid heed to and eradicated with the collective efforts of the state and society.

Domestic violence has many forms and manifestations. ICT Domestic Violence(Prevention and Protection) Bill 2020 broadly defines domestic violence as physical, sexual, economic, emotional, and psychological abuse. The provincial legal frameworks also define domestic violence in almost similar wording.

It is beyond imagination that a victim of rape can be punished. As history has vast and strong memories, one can dig out such heinous examples. The case of Safia Bibi is not part of our recent dis­course. She was raped in 1982 in Sahi­wal by her employer. She got pregnant and a baby was born. What happens next is the nadir of humanity and moral­ity. She could not prove the allegation in the District & Sessions Court. Resultant­ly, she was sentenced to three years by........

© The Nation