QUETTA: The Balochistan Women Protection Bill has passed the scrutiny of the law department and is set to be presented in the Balochistan Assembly for legislative approval after obtaining cabinet’s consent.

Dr Rubaba Khan Buledi, the parl­i­amentary secretary for law and IT, made this revelation during a meeting with the delegation from the Commission on Status of Women, headed by Chairperson Fouzia Shaheen.

Dr Buledi mentioned that amendments have also been suggested in the domestic violence laws to ensure more effective protection of women’s rights. The ongoing efforts to devise comprehensive legislation for safeguarding women and child rights in Balochistan were acknowledged by the parliamentary secretary.

The meeting also included Alauddin Khilji, the resident director of Aurat Foundation, and Sana Durrani, the chairperson of Ending Violence against Women and Girls Alliance. Mr Khilji informed about the initiative to encourage women’s participation in general seats in the upcoming general elections.

In response, a grand convention in Quetta was announced, inviting women representatives recently elected in the local government polls from all over Balochistan.

Advocate Zarghuna called for a proper selection process based on merit and experience to assign responsibilities in relevant forums, ensuring the effective protection of women’s rights.

Furthermore, the formation of anti-harassment committees across departments and public sector universities was emphasised by the Parliamentary Secretary, aiming to create safer workplaces for women.

Dr Buledi praised the commendable performance of active non-governmental organisations like the Commission on Status of Women, Aurat Foundation, and EVAWG Alliance, emphasizing the need for sustained and coordinated efforts in advancing women’s rights. As per the law department’s report, no summaries of pending departments, including those related to the protection of fundamental rights, were found at present.

Published in Dawn, July 27th, 2023