The Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights - chaired by Samina Zehri - raised serious concerns over gender-based violence in Pakistan.

During a detailed briefing, Senator Sherry Rehman highlighted low conviction rates and the growing gap between lawmaking and enforcement.

Representatives from Punjab and Islamabad police presented alarming statistics:

Punjab: Cases reported rose from 30,757 in 2021 to 61,097 in 2024.
Islamabad: In 2025, 248 accused were acquitted, while 200 cases ended in reconciliation between parties.

Senator Rehman noted that many incidents remain unreported or undocumented, further skewing statistics and limiting justice for victims.

Senator Sherry Rehman pointed out that multiple laws related to gender-based violence have been enacted, including five bills she presented in 2002.
However, the conviction rate remains critically low at 5 percent, while acquittals reach 64 percent.

She stressed: “We are asked to make laws, but where is the implementation?” Chairperson Samina Zehri echoed concerns, highlighting that court decisions are often ignored and enforcement mechanisms remain weak.

Police challenges and training needs

Police representatives admitted to systemic challenges:

Officers face pressure from victims, accused, and families.
Fear of dishonor often prevents victims from filing reports.
Courts sometimes reduce sentences due to insufficient evidence.

IG Punjab highlighted police training programs, emphasizing respectful communication with women, including guidance on not laughing while speaking to female victims.

Committee members call for reform

Senator Rehman and committee members debated solutions to reduce gender-based violence.
Discussions included:

Special training for police to handle sensitive cases.
Amending laws to strengthen enforcement.
Increasing awareness and reporting mechanisms for victims.

Committee members also pointed out shocking cases, such as a 15-year-old girl being allowed to marry under court rulings, and instances where perpetrators were released despite serious offenses.

A recent bill addressing domestic violence has been passed, but Rehman noted the conviction rate is only 0.5 percent.
Earlier, women were often prevented from filing complaints, and police frequently dismissed cases as “family matters” or blamed the victim in cases of sexual assault.

Chairperson Zehri questioned the system: “We are told to make laws, who will enforce them?”