LARKANA: The Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC) chairperson Iqbal Ahmed Detho has pointed out to crucial role of training for police officers and SHOs in the latest amendments and enactments in human rights laws, particularly for women, and urged law-enforcers to cultivate a deeper understanding and implementation of the women-specific amended laws.

“As we commemorate International Women’s Day, the emphasis on addressing women-specific concerns within police stations signifies a step toward ensuring a more inclusive and supportive environment for both officers and the community,” said Mr Detho at a training session focusing on the latest amendments and enactments in human rights laws held at Police Training Centre here on Tuesday.

The SHRC and the Sindh Police Training Wing Larkana have joined forces to conduct intensive training of police officials touching key areas in human rights laws, with a special focus on women, children and the critical issue of human trafficking.

The training session delved into various legislative aspects, including the Sindh Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 2015; and its Rules 2020, and the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act, 2018; and its Rules 2020.

It explored Section 374 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) concerning bonded labour, underscoring the commitment to eradicating this pressing issue.

Mr Detho highlighted challenging journey ahead for inspectors and focused on the significance of their roles, emphasising the power and responsibility they held in upholding justice.

He spotlighted crucial legislative amendments and underscored the pivotal role of the Sindh Protection of Human Rights Act, 2011, emphasising its enduring impact on safeguarding human rights.

He dilated on the Juvenile Justice System Act, 2018, and stressed the need for a specialised and sensitive approach to handling cases involving minors.

Barrister Rida, a legal consultant, discussed key legislations including the Sindh Child Marriage Restraint Act, 2013, and its Rules 2016, the Sindh Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2013; and the Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010; with its Amendment in 2022.

Deputy Inspector General of Police Tariq Razzak Dharejo emphasised the positive police role, particularly in upholding human rights of women and children.

Detho, his team and Larkana SSP Syed Abdul Rahim Sherazi inspected Shaheed Abdul Malik Bhutto police station and the women police station. During the visit, the SHO of the women’s police station disclosed that a one-room building had not been constructed in the last two years due to budgetary constraints.

He stressed the crucial role of training for all officers and SHOs and said this proactive stance aligned with broader goal of fostering societal improvement and promoting gender equality within law enforcement structures.

The chairman of SHRC later visited the Larkana office of SHRC and wished to make it a fully-fledged office to serve people in the entire Larkana division.

DIGP Tariq Razzak Dharejo and SHRC chairperson distributed certificates among participants of the participants of the session.

Published in Dawn, March 6th, 2024