Systemic Failures in Protecting Women in Pakistan
Recent events in Pakistan have once again highlighted the country’s deep-rooted issues in safeguarding women from violence, stigma, and societal neglect. Two tragic cases have brought attention to the alarming reality that women are often treated as disposable in both life and death.
In Islamabad, a woman named Sanya lost her life after allegedly being set on fire by her husband and father-in-law. In Karachi, the decomposed body of actress Humaira Asghar Ali was discovered in her apartment weeks after her death. Reports suggest that even her own family initially refused to claim her remains. These two incidents, though distinct in their circumstances, reveal a common thread: the pervasive misogyny that continues to plague Pakistani society.
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The Legal Challenges Faced by Women
The legal system in Pakistan has been criticized for its inability to provide justice to women. In Sanya’s case, her lawyer has called for prosecution under the Anti-Terrorism Act, describing the crime as “tantamount to terrorism.” While this may seem extreme, it reflects the harsh reality that justice for women is rarely achieved. Conviction rates for domestic violence cases remain abysmally low at 1.3%, and less than 0.5% for rape and honor killings. In 2024 alone, an average of six domestic violence incidents and two honor killings were reported daily, with most cases going unpunished.
Despite public outrage, the system offers little hope of deterrence. Police often fail to register First Information Reports (FIRs), survivors face pressure to resolve cases privately, and courts frequently treat violence against women as a family matter rather than a crime. The Sindh High Court has expressed concern over the increasing frequency of such cases, warning that honor killings could lead to “anarchy” if left unchecked.
Public Apathy and Judgment
The case of Humaira Asghar Ali illustrates another critical issue: public apathy, judgment, and cruelty. Instead of receiving sympathy, her death was met with speculation and moral policing. Even in death, a woman’s character can be questioned, revealing the harsh societal norms she lived and died under. This lack of empathy underscores the need for broader cultural change.
The Need for Legal and Cultural Reform
Justice in these cases will require more than just slogans or social media campaigns. Legal reform is essential, including the establishment of specialized courts, female-led violence units, and independent investigations free from political or familial influence. However, cultural reform is equally urgent. The casual cruelty women face for living independently, working in the media, or seeking justice must come to an end.
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As courts have rightly ruled, honor killing is not a private matter; it is fasad, a rebellion against the rule of law. This principle should apply to all forms of gender-based violence. If the state continues to treat these incidents as isolated cases, it sends a clear message: that women’s lives can be taken with impunity.
Conclusion
The systemic failures in protecting women in Pakistan are evident in both legal and societal contexts. The high rates of violence and the lack of justice underscore the urgent need for comprehensive reforms. Without meaningful changes in both the legal framework and societal attitudes, the cycle of violence and neglect will continue. It is time for the state and society to take decisive action to ensure that women are protected, respected, and given the justice they deserve.
