DLP Report
PESHAWAR
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Commission on the Status of Women (KPCSW) has expressed concern over what it described as a rise in reported cases of violence against women and girls across the province, urging authorities to ensure prompt investigations and justice for survivors.
In a statement issued on Monday, the commission strongly condemned all forms of gender-based violence, including domestic violence, rape, attempted sexual assault, child sexual abuse, harassment, kidnapping, unlawful detention and so-called honour-related crimes, calling for strict action against perpetrators under the law.
The commission said its District Committees on the Status of Women (DCSWs) had remained actively engaged in responding to reported incidents by coordinating with district administrations, police, hospitals, child protection authorities, Dar-ul-Aman and the Social Welfare Department.
According to the commission, the district committees handled 16 reported cases during the past four weeks in Peshawar, Nowshera, Mardan, Lower Dir, Tank, Khyber, Abbottabad and Swat. The cases included domestic violence, rape, attempted sexual assault, child sexual abuse, kidnapping, harassment, unlawful detention, family disputes and a suspected murder.
The commission said the district committees facilitated the registration of first information reports (FIRs), referrals, legal guidance, psychosocial support, victim protection, family mediation where appropriate, and follow-up of investigations in coordination with the relevant authorities.
KPCSW Chairperson Dr Sumera Shams appreciated the efforts of the district committees in responding to cases despite challenging circumstances and reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to protecting the rights of women and girls.
She said the commission would continue to monitor reported cases, strengthen coordination with relevant institutions and advocate for timely investigations, accountability of perpetrators and prompt justice for survivors across the province.
The commission also urged the public to report incidents of violence without fear and called on all relevant institutions to fulfil their responsibilities to ensure the protection of women and girls
