Pakistan's Senate Passes Landmark Anti-Harassment Bill Aimed at Women

Women and those who care for women in Pakistan have at long last something to celebrate. The Criminal Law Amendment Bill (which is related to sexual harassment) was adopted by the Senate with the support of all major parties, but with members of the religious parties staging a walkout or absenting themselves.


The bill which had been passed by the National Assembly in November will become law when it is signed by the president. It enhances the punishment for acts previously described in the PPC and the CrPC as an “insult to the modesty of women” and gives a clearer definition of harassment to make it justiciable before a court of law. But as is the case with all laws, especially those envisaging change, they have to be translated into action. That calls for strict enforcement on the one hand, and a change in mindset on the other. One hopes that the government and social activists work towards that end to eliminate the intimidation that women face in public places. This is essential to facilitating women’s mobility outside their homes to enable them to obtain education, healthcare and employment. Complete Story