ISLAMABAD: A parliamentary body on Tuesday expressed grave concern over the rising incidents of gender-based violence and the recent tragedy in Swat, calling for immediate institutional accountability, stronger legal frameworks and enhanced emergency preparedness.

Besides the lawmakers, the parents of slain 17-year-old content creator Sana Yousaf were also invited to the meeting.

The Senate Functional Committee on Human Rights, headed by Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri, received a detailed briefing from the Islamabad police on the Sana Yousaf murder case.

Members appreciated the swift response by Islamabad police, noting that the suspect was apprehended within 48 hours and that critical evidence, including the weapon, forensic samples and digital devices, was secured and submitted in a timely manner.

However, the committee highlighted persistent weaknesses in the prosecution process that often resulted in culprits evading justice. Senator Irfan Siddiqui stressed that many cases lost strength during prosecution due to procedural loopholes and weak follow-through after the challan was filed.

He emphasised the need for greater coordination between investigators and prosecutors to ensure that cases were pursued effectively in court.

Police officials acknowledged previous shortcomings in handling evidence but assured that, in the present case, all protocols were followed.

The committee further called for increased public awareness campaigns and school-based education to address growing concerns around harassment and violence targeting women and children.

During the meeting, Sana Yousaf’s mother was asked by the committee if she was satisfied with the action taken by Islamabad police so far. She expressed satisfaction.

The chairperson of the committee said she felt sorry and was devastated at the loss of a precious life like Sana’s; however, the quick and meticulous investigation into and handling of the case by Islamabad police deserved commendation.

The committee also reviewed the tragic drowning of 13 tourists, including women and children, in the River Swat.

Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of emergency preparedness despite weather advisories and prior awareness efforts. She questioned the absence of an early warning system, proper rescue equipment and trained personnel at a high-risk tourist location.

The committee was dismayed to learn of delayed response times, unrecorded emergency calls, and the lack of actionable coordination between local authorities and hotels operating near riverbanks.

Emphasising that lives must not be treated casually, the chairperson stated that this could have happened to anyone’s family.

The committee directed that all hospitality establishments in vulnerable areas must implement fencing, safety protocols, and tourist alerts, and resolved to hold a follow-up meeting to assess compliance and determine responsibility for the failures observed.

In addition, the committee deliberated on the National Commission on the Rights of the Child (Amendment) Bill 2023 and the ICT Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill 2024, both introduced by Senator Dr Zarqa Suharwardy Taimur.

Members directed the Ministry to complete consultations and submit a finalised version by July 14, stating that no further extensions would be granted. It was further emphasised that oversight responsibilities related to disability rights should remain with ICT authorities and that child rights bodies must operate with clearly defined independence and authority.

Members reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the rights and lives of vulnerable citizens and underscored the need for timely, coordinated and accountable governance across all relevant departments.

Published in Dawn, July 9th, 2025