UNFORTUNATELY, our society has been taking a step backwards instead of forward whenever women and their rights to marriage, education and social equality are discussed. Consequently, the collective will of society is missing when it comes to supporting the cause of its women.

A large number of women in the country face traumatic events, such as gender-based violence (GBV), torture and harassment. Sexual violence and honour killings have made their way into the social fabric as well. The fact is that our society has yet to get rid of the menace of dowry.

Women’s right to education has never been a matter of priority in many families. They feel embarrassed when girls step out for getting education or pursuing their dreams. Women are under constant pressure to protect the honour and dignity of their families.

Until society sheds it androcentric tilt, it will never be able to stop objectifying women and considering them to be an ‘asset’.

Guldasta Arif Khilji
Hub

Published in Dawn, December 15th, 2022