The Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC) tackles the persistent issue of domestic violence in Sindh province, through the roadmap “From Enactment to Implementation: Recommendations for Addressing Domestic Violence in Sindh.” This publication, part of the Sindh Human Rights Commission’s research products, aims to promote and protect human rights, particularly those relating to life, liberty, equality, and dignity, as mandated under the Sindh Protection of Human Rights Act 2011.
The roadmap embarks on a meticulous examination of the multifaceted dimensions of domestic violence, starting with an in-depth analysis of the legal frameworks and definitions governing such violence within the context of Sindh, Pakistan. Delving deeper, the report elucidates the socio-economic contexts and theoretical perspectives that underlie and perpetuate domestic violence, shedding light on the entrenched patriarchal norms that contribute to its prevalence.
Despite being shrouded in significant underreporting, the prevalence of domestic violence in Sindh emerges as an alarming reality, necessitating urgent and decisive action. The roadmap exposes the pervasive nature of domestic violence and its far-reaching consequences on individuals, families, and communities across the province. It underscores the critical imperative for establishing accurate data collection mechanisms and implementing comprehensive intervention strategies to effectively address this pressing issue.
Although the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act 2013 and Rules 2016 are comprehensive, the roadmap delves into the challenges hindering their effective implementation. It analyzes the legal framework established by the law, outlining how it offers protection measures for victims/survivors/aggrieved persons and facilitates access to justice. While the brief acknowledges successful applications of the DV Act 2013 and Rules 2016, including landmark convictions in the courts, it also recognizes ongoing hurdles. These hurdles include limited public awareness about the law and victims’ rights, and the persistent social stigma surrounding the issue.
To address these critical concerns, the SHRC proposes a multi-pronged approach. The roadmap emphasizes the importance of capacity building through training programs for police officers, prosecutors, lawyers and judges, equipping them with the necessary skills and sensitivity to handle these often complex cases. Public awareness campaigns are also recommended to educate the general public about the DV Act, victims’ rights, and available support services. Moreover, the brief includes comprehensive recommendations for legislative bodies, administrative departments, civil society organizations, and academia, outlining a roadmap to eliminate domestic violence in Sindh. The roadmap presents a set of meticulously crafted recommendations tailored to the diverse array of stakeholders within Sindh. By fostering heightened awareness, facilitating knowledge dissemination, and fostering a culture of accountability, Sindh can pave the way for significant progress in creating a safer and more equitable society for all its inhabitants.
In conclusion, the roadmap emphasizes the interconnectedness of the issue of domestic violence with broader societal structures and calls for a concerted effort to dismantle the underlying systems of oppression. By heeding the proposed recommendations and prioritizing the holistic well-being of all individuals, Sindh can chart a transformative path towards a future devoid of violence and discrimination, where all individuals can fulfil their potential.
Read the full research here: A Roadmap For Addressing Domestic Violence In Sindh Through Implementation Of The Domestic Violence