Crimes like kidnapping, assault, and harassment make parents worried about their daughters at all times.
Hira Shams
I am writing to highlight a very serious issue that affects millions of women across Pakistan — their safety and protection in everyday life. Women are an essential part of our society, and they deserve to live with dignity, respect, and complete security. Sadly, the situation today shows that women continue to face multiple threats and challenges.
Women play important roles in every sector including education, health, business, and public services. Yet, harassment, violence, and inequality limit their freedom and confidence. Street harassment has become a daily fear for women when they step outside their homes, whether they are traveling to school, college, workplace, or even a nearby market. Such situations force many girls to quit studies or refuse job opportunities, which affects their future and the country’s development as a whole.
Read: Is Pakistan Safe for Women to Travel
Read: Domestic violence is another alarming issue that often remains hidden. Many women suffer silently because they fear social backlash, lack legal awareness, or do not have financial independence. In some conservative areas, girls are still not allowed to continue their education because their safety cannot be assured. Crimes like kidnapping, assault, and harassment make parents worried about their daughters at all times.
To overcome these problems, strict laws should not only exist but also be properly enforced. More female police staff, quick complaint systems, women-only public transport spaces, and awareness campaigns can help build a safer environment. Schools and workplaces must provide strong anti-harassment policies. Most importantly, families and society must teach boys to respect women as equal human beings.
I request the government and relevant authorities to take immediate steps to ensure women can move freely without fear. When women feel secure, they will participate more confidently in the progress of Pakistan, contributing to a stronger and successful nation.
Read: Sex, Death and Empire: The Roots of Violence against Asian Women
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Hira Shams is resident of Rawalpindi satellite town
