The Wome Development Foundation, in collaboration with the Trust for Democratic Education and Accountability under the Coalition for Inclusive Pakistan, organized a District Convention held at a local hotel in Karachi.

( Karachi) The Wome Development Foundation, in collaboration with the Trust for Democratic Education and Accountability under the Coalition for Inclusive Pakistan, organized a District Convention held at a local hotel in Karachi.
While speaking at the convention Iqbal Ahmed Detho, Chairperson of the Sindh Human Rights Commission, expressed appreciation for the Women Development Foundation’s efforts, emphasizing the significance of their event. He advocated for the establishment of Women and Children Police stations in every district, citing relevant judgments of the Sindh High Court. Discussions also covered the Sindh Assembly Rules of Procedure and the need for collaboration among former and current MPAs to enhance legislation. Detho underscored the role of the Women Development Department in raising awareness about domestic violence laws. SHRC’s initiatives included training sessions for legal professionals and police instructors to address issues affecting women, minorities, and transgender individuals. Weaknesses in maternity and paternity leave implementation were noted, along with advocacy for district libraries and intervention in ensuring children’s access to textbooks.
At the convention, Barrister Rida Tahir, Legal Consultant Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC), reiterated the Commission’s steadfast commitment to advocating for the implementation of pro-women laws in Sindh. Highlighting the landmark Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act of 2013, Barrister Rida underscored the pivotal role played by the Commission in ensuring its effective enforcement.
Notably, Barrister Rida shed light on the crucial step taken in 2016 with the passage of rules for the implementation of the Domestic Violence Act. These rules delineate the establishment of the Commission of Domestic Violence, empowered to investigate complaints and take suo-motu action on instances of domestic violence. Additionally, she emphasized the role of Protection Committees tasked with providing essential medical assistance and shelter to aggrieved individuals.
In furtherance of its mission Barrister Rida lauded the enactment of the Medicolegal Act, 2023 by the Provincial Assembly of Sindh. This legislation mandates the formation of the Medical Legal Advisory Board, charged with overseeing policies, procedures, and quality assurance in medical-legal examinations. Recognizing the critical importance of these measures in cases of violence against women, including domestic and sexual violence, Barrister Rida urged swift action for their effective implementation. She also discussed the significance of the Sindh Maternity Benefits Act, 2018, in ensuring women’s welfare and urged for its effective enforcement such as the establishment of Day Care Centres. The SHRC calls for expedited measures to achieve the Act’s objectives and enhance access to justice for women.
In advocating for the rights and safety of women, the SHRC has actively engaged with law enforcement authorities. Barrister Rida revealed that the Commission has written a letter to the Inspector General of Police for the establishment of women’s police stations in all districts across Sindh. Additionally, efforts have been made to institute a Referral Mechanism for Free Legal Aid in cases of violence against women, reflecting the Commission’s commitment to enhancing access to justice.During the convention Sabiha Shah, CEO of WDFP, presented the information, Shamim Mumtaz shared the experience of her tenure, while Wali Mohammad Qureshi, Deputy Director of WDD, emphasized that WDD was established in 1994 through the efforts of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. He mentioned that although there should be 30 WDD officers, currently, there are only 8 officers. Qureshi also highlighted the various projects and safe houses managed by WDD. Additionally, Abida Memon, President of WDFP, Mahmood ur Rahmen, Director of V.A, S.W, and Larish Turshani, Project Coordinator, also addressed the audience during the convention.