Lawmakers of a legislative body of upper house of parliament on Monday expressed their serious concern over increase in abduction and rape cases across the country and directed the authority concerned to take appropriate measures to stop it.

These concerns were shown during a Senate Functional Committee on Human Rights meeting, held at parliament house. Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri was in the chair.

The Chairperson highlighted the alarming increase in abduction and rape cases in recent years, expressing deep concern. She also voiced her displeasure over the lack of action against forced marriages, calling it a disgrace to the entire country. The Chairperson suggested that the Ministry obtain detailed action reports on cases of rape, domestic violence, murder, and the killing of innocent citizens in Islamabad, rather than merely providing numerical data. MoHR officials reported that from 2021 to 2023, a total of 13,904 cases were recorded across Pakistan, with 90 of these cases occurring in Islamabad. Additionally, 179 complaints, petitions, and Suo Motu notices were reported across the country.

The Secretary, (MoHR) explained that it is usually the police who record such cases, and when a victim seeks assistance, efforts are made to facilitate the victim and provide legal support. He mentioned an Android app called “Awaz,” where cases of human rights violations are reported, forwarded to district police officers and concerned authorities, and action is taken accordingly.

Moreover, the Chair also inquired about the status of death sentences for rape cases. The Secretary, (MoHR) reported that over the past four years, there have been no death penalties. He further clarified that such cases fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Interior.

Source: Pakistan Observer