ISLAMABAD: The Sustainable Social Development Organisation (SSDO) on Thursday released its latest factsheet on Violence Against Women (VAW) in Islamabad, reporting 373 cases of violence against women in the first half of 2025, but not a single conviction.

In a statement, SSDO called for urgent justice reforms and accountability measures covering the period from January to June 2025.

The data, obtained through the Right to Information (RTI) from the Police Department, presents a grim picture of women’s safety in the capital. A total of 373 cases of violence against women were reported during the six-month period, yet not a single conviction was recorded across all categories.

Out of the total cases, 309 were registered under the combined category of rape and kidnapping, making up around 83 per cent of all incidents. Despite this high number, zero convictions were recorded, with many cases withdrawn before conclusion.

Physical abuse accounted for 42 cases (11 per cent), with no convictions achieved to date. Harassment comprised 17 cases, cybercrime accounted for three and two cases of honour killing were also reported.

The findings of the factsheet revealed deep systemic gaps in the investigation and prosecution process of violence against women cases.

The complete absence of convictions, despite hundreds of reported incidents, underscored serious flaws in evidence handling, victim protection and judicial efficiency.

Syed Kausar Abbas, Executive Director of SSDO, expressed grave concern over the findings, stating that it was alarming that despite hundreds of cases being reported, not a single conviction had been achieved in Islamabad. This, he said, clearly reflected systemic weaknesses that denied justice to survivors.

“We urge the police, prosecution, and judiciary to take coordinated and urgent action to ensure accountability and restore public trust in the justice system,” he added.

SSDO called upon law enforcement agencies and judicial authorities to strengthen investigation procedures, expedite trials, and improve survivor support mechanisms.

The organisation emphasised the need for coordinated efforts to close the justice gap and ensure that violence against women cases are resolved with accountability and fairness.

Published in Dawn, November 7th, 2025