KARACHI, July 5: Sindh minister for law, justice and human rights A.Q. Halepoto on Friday said prompt action will be taken in case of any violation of human rights in the province.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of a “free online legal advisory service” and at a seminar entitled: “Human Rights - Current Issues”, he referred to a case of gang-rape in the city and said that Sindh law department had appointed a prominent lawyer to represent the prosecution, while family of the victim would be relocated/rehabilitated.

“The present government is conscious of the sanctity of women and is committed to safeguard human rights. For this purpose human rights cells have been established at federal and provincial levels,” he said.

“Currently three councils, one at the federal level headed by the chief justice of Pakistan, and four at provincial levels headed by chief justices of the high courts and several at district levels have been established for redressing grievances of victims, facing human rights violations,” Mr Halepoto added.

He appreciated the role of NGOs towards human rights and said his ministry would extend all cooperation and assistance to the genuine NGOs working for the interest of people.

He said the federal law ministry had prepared an ordinance, prohibiting women and children trafficking, which would be promulgated within a few days.

Terming the menace of Karo-kari a grave violation of basic and fundamental rights, he expressed delight that perpetuators of Karo- kari were getting severe punishments from local courts after an amendment in the law, regarding commencement of murder case against those committing Karo-kari under the influence of sudden and grave provocation.

—APP/PPI