PESHAWAR
The EVAW/G Alliance Khyber and Mardan Chapter, in collaboration with Civil Society Organization Blue Veins, on Saturday raised the demand to strengthen the DRCs and highlighted the important role of Dispute Resolution Councils (DRCs) in empowering women and girls across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Established under the Police Reforms, 2016, DRCs provide a significant platform for the peaceful resolution of disputes through Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms, addressing shortcomings in the formal judicial system.
“DRCs represent a significant step towards accessible justice for women and girls in our province,” said a spokesperson for EVAW/G Alliance Khyber Chapter. “These councils offer a streamlined approach to resolving disputes outside complex judicial mechanisms, ensuring quicker and more equitable outcomes.”
Recognizing the importance of gender inclusivity within DRCs, EVAW/G Alliance members urge law enforcement authorities to prompt the activation of these councils.
They emphasize the critical need for women’s representation within DRCs to ensure fair and sensitive handling of cases pertinent to women’s rights and interests.
“We urge the police authorities to expedite the establishment and operationalization of DRCs, with a focus on enhancing accessibility for women and girls,” added the spokesperson. “It is imperative to train DRC members rigorously in conflict resolution and legal frameworks, aligning with international best practices to uphold justice effectively.”
Qamar Naseem, Program Manager at Blue Veins, highlighted the transformative potential of DRCs for women in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: “DRCs provide a localized platform where women can resolve disputes swiftly and effectively. This initiative promises to empower women by providing them with a forum that respects their rights and ensures their voices are heard.”
Usman Afridi, a youth rights activist from Khyber District, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing, “The establishment of DRCs offers a pathway for women in tribal districts to reclaim their rights and participate more actively in community and legal processes.”
The EVAW/G Alliance Khyber and Mardan Chapter and Blue Veins call upon all stakeholders to support the implementation and enhancement of DRCs across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, advocating for a system that prioritizes gender equity and justice for all.
