QUETTA: Women rights activists and lawyers on Sunday urged legislation against child marriage, calling on all political parties to support the law and ensure female participation in local elections on party tickets.

Key members of the Shirkat Gah Women Political Forum expressed concern about certain political parties opposing the ban on child marriage, even those claiming to be progressive and democratic.

They also criticised parties for withholding development funds from female representatives, citing gender discrimination.

“Political parties should provide funds to women members and ensure their participation in local bodies elections and award party tickets for taking part in the general elections too,” they said, adding that more widows, persons with disabilities and transgenders should be included in the Benazir Income Support Programme.

Published in Dawn, October 9th, 2023