Issue No. 39 January-April 2012

Founded by Shahla Zia Patron-in-Chief: Nigar Ahmad Critical appreciation of National Commission on the Status of Women Act, 2012 NCSW on road to autonomy By Maliha Zia Lari there remained a number of flaws amended the 2000 law creating the Chairperson. Rather than being which hampered its envisioned func- NCSW in an attempt to deal with the appointed by the Government, the The formation of a National tion and role. Civil society and the gaps affecting its functionality. The option of open nomination and the for- Commission on the Status of Women Commission itself have advocated for new law is titled National Commission mation of a Parliamentary Committee (NCSW) in 2000 was one of the years to make amendments to ensure on the Status of Women Act, 2012. to make the final decision not only biggest achievements of the women's the autonomy of NCSW and enhance allows recommendations from the movement. The creation of a commis- its role and capacity. In 2012 the The 2012 law has made improvements public but also allows the appointment sion for women had first been high- Government of Pakistan finally in the procedure of appointment of the Continued on next Page lighted by the 1975 Pakistan Women's Rights Committee under Yahya Bakhtiar, set up by the Government. Autonomy and record pro-women legislative The Committee recommended that a permanent commission be established, review are major achievements: Anis Haroon not just as a watch dog but also as the highest policy making body for By Staff Reporter Act 2012 promises executive as women's interest in the country. Since well as financial autonomy to the com- then, it became one of the forefront The National Commission on the Status mission, she said. "When I joined demands of civil society. As a response of Women, the permanent constitution- the commission in March 2009 as its to national demands, as well as nation- al body for women, has achieved maxi- chairperson, the enactment of new al and international commitments of mum possible autonomy in the new law law giving autonomy to the commis- the Government of Pakistan which which has replaced the presidential sion was mine and my colleagues' include Beijing Declaration and ordinance, under which it was estab- foremost priority, because as member Platform for Action, 1995; and lished in 2000, said Ms. Anis Haroon, of the women's rights movement National Plan of Action (NPA) for former chairperson of the commission we have been demanding this for Women, 1998, the NCSW was finally while talking to the Legislative Watch years", she said. "My predecessors established in 2000. in Islamabad soon after completing her Justice (Retd.) Majida Razvi and three-year tenure as head of the com- Syeda Arifa Zehra also made serious However, despite the success of the mission. The commission's third tenure The new law called National and strenuous efforts in this regard", establishment of the Commission, ended in March 2012. Commission on the Status of Women Continued on Page 6 Question of domestic violence and necessity of DVB By MZL pens in the home should not be brought Constitution of the Islamic Republic of protection for victims and for the into the public realm. By the State Pakistan 1973, which provide from the prevention of such offences. The promulgation of a Domestic remaining silent and the law enforcing right to security of person, inviolabili- Violence Act has been high on civil mechanisms passive on this issue, such ty of the dignity of man etc., and equal- The Domestic Violence Bill - society agenda for a number of years. violence is tacitly condoned by them. ity of citizens before the law and equal History and Current Status Domestic violence is a health, legal, Treating domestic violence as a private protection of law. economic, educational, social, devel- affair has given protection to perpetra- There have been several attempts to opment and a human rights issue. In tors or violence and has led to the vic- Despite this constitutional guarantee of introduce and pass a law on domestic the overwhelming majority of cases, timization of women. protection, the issue of domestic vio- violence at all levels. This article does such violence is perpetuated by men lence is exacerbated by the lack of not deal with the substantive material against women. There have been cases Aurat Foundation in its annual report institutional recognition of the issue of the domestic violence laws, it is where women are violent, but such on "Violence Against Women in and the implicit acceptance evidence important to note at this juncture, incidents are only a small percentage Pakistan: A qualitative review of statis- by the silence and disregard of the while civil society strongly advocates and women and children largely tics 2011" has found that that 610 inci- issue. the promulgation of a law on domestic remain the victims. dents of domestic violence were violence, it also advocates that any reported in 2011. Many more cases of Article 25 of the Constitution of the such law must be comprehensive and There are an increasing number of domestic violence remain unreported.. Islamic Republic of Pakistan allows not have negative clauses within it. reported cases of domestic violence This will not stop until families, socie- the State to makespecial provisions for Civil society has worked with parlia- against women in Pakistan, and innu- ty, government institutions and the the protection of women and children. mentarians on the drafting of the vari- merable more unreported incidents and state address the issue directly and rec- Given the high statistics of domestic ous bills, however it has not concurred cases; yet the State has consistently ognize that women and children have a violence against women and children, with some of the final drafts that refused to give legal recognition to this right to State protection even within it is vital to have a specific law on were placed before the legislative serious and deep rooted issue. The the private realm of the family home. domestic violence enacted in order to forums, which it has shared with the State continues to perpetuate the pub- These rights are also enshrined in not just identify domestic violence as a Continued on Page 4 lic/private divide, i.e. whatever hap- Articles 9, 14 and 25 of the crime, but also to provide support and 2 NCSW on road to autonomy From Page 1 Rights (PCSW). Non-voting members other sums or properties or assets have status equivalent to BOS-21 of include: 5 ex officio members repre- which may in any manner become the Federal Government. to be transparent. senting the Ministries of Law, Finance, payable to or vest in, the Commission Foreign Affairs, Interior and the in respect of any matter. Functions of the Commission The Commission has also been given a Ministry concerned with the subject of budget by the Government. This shows women's rights, all of whom shall not Chairperson Section 11 details the functions and a commitment of the Government be below BPS-20; and Secretary of the powers of the Commission. The towards the Commission. Alongside Commission. Every member of the The Chairperson of the Commission Commission is mandated to oversee all this, it continues to have the power to Commission and every officer appoint- shall be a woman with experience of policy, programmes and other meas- raise its own funds, allowing it to have ed or authorized by the Commission to working on issues related to women's ures of the Federal government in rela- an allocated funds and the potential for exercise functions under this Act shall rights for more than fifteen years, and tion to women, as well as review of all extra funds, which allows it financial be deemed to be a public servant with- is committed to the cause of women's laws, rules and regulations affecting independence. in the meaning of section 21 PPC empowerment. She shall be appointed the status and rights of women and under procedures identified in Section making recommendations as to The Commission also now has its own The secretariat of the Commission will 4. The Federal Government is required amendment, repeal or promulgation of independent secretariat with its own be headed by the Secretary, along with to invite suggestions through public new regulations to protect and safe- Secretary. It will not be placed within a officers and support staff. The notice of suitable persons as guard the rights of women. Ministry as it was done previously, Secretary, amongst his/her other Chairperson. Upon scrutiny of these thereby giving it an independent and duties, will also be in charge of prepa- persons, it shall submit a list of those The Commission is also mandated to cross-Ministry status. ration of the Annual Work Plan and persons to the Prime Minister and the provide research and collect data and budget. The Commission itself will Leader of the Opposition in the provide analysis in order to maintain a The right of inquiry into complaints of consider, approve and monitor imple- National Assembly. The Prime database relating to women and gender violations of women's rights has been mentation of the Strategic Plan and Minister, in consultation with the issues. This will work towards guiding given to the Commission. It has been Annual Budget. Leader of the Opposition, shall put national policy and strategic action for given powers vested in a civil court forward three names to a women's empowerment. under the Code of Civil Procedure The Commission shall also prepare its Parliamentary Committee which will 1908 (Act V of 1908) for enforcing the Annual Report which shall be present- be formed as per this section. If there It is also responsible for the creation attendance of any person and com- ed to the Prime Minister and the con- is no consensus between the Prime and maintenance of links with non- pelling the production of documents. cerned Ministry. The Annual Report Minister and Leader of the governmental organizations, experts This is a welcome amendment and shall also be laid down before and dis- Opposition, they shall both forward and individuals, as well as with other increase in the powers of the cussed in the Parliament. Section 17 separate lists to the Parliamentary similar commissions and institutions in Commission. This allows it to take a requires all Federal executive authori- Committee. The Parliamentary other countries for collaboration and more active role backed by the neces- ties to assist the Commission in the Committee shall hear and confirm one action to achieve gender equality at sary power. performance of its functions. of these persons as Chairperson of the national, regional and international NCSW. level. While the law could have included Meetings of the Commission will be several features including making the chaired by the Chairperson, or anyone The Parliamentary Committee shall be It also has the responsibility to mobi- Commission's input and recommenda- designated by her and will be held 4 a maximum twelve member lize grants from domestic and interna- tions a mandatory feature in all laws, times a year, in every quarter. Committee, out of which one third tional, including multi and bilateral policies and programmes affecting Additional meetings may be called if shall be from the Senate. It shall regu- agencies, approved by the Federal women, it does not mean the amend- and when required. Quorum for the late its own procedures. Members of Government, for meeting any of its ments in the 2012 law are not wel- meeting shall not be less than one half the Committee shall include the obligations and performance of its come. The mandatory nature of the of the total strength of the Speaker of the National Assembly and functions. It must also liase with recommendations of the Commission Commission. will comprise of an equal division of Provincial Commissions set up under must continue to be advocated for, but members from the treasury benches provincial laws and other concerned in the meantime, the Commission Section 13 mandates the formation of and opposition, based on their strength provincial organizations. must continue to strengthen itself and an Executive Committee consisting of in the Parliament and nomination by its role in protection of women's the Chairperson and three other mem- the respective Parliamentary Leaders. The Commission also has the mandate rights. bers appointed by the Commission to The Chairperson shall be appointed for to facilitate and monitor implementa- oversee implementation of the deci- a term of 3 years from the date of entry tion of international instruments and The salient features of the 2012 law are sions and recommendations of the into office. The term may be extended obligations affecting women and girls enumerated below. The rules, accord- Commission. Committees may also be only once. to which Pakistan is a signatory and to ing to the law, must be made within formed on specific matters amongst its advise the Federal Government before ninety days of the commencement of members, and if necessary, inclusion The Chairperson shall be a fulltime accession to any such proposed inter- this Act. of any person with specialist knowl- employee and will have the status national instrument, protocol or treaty. edge on a subject. equivalent to a Minister of State and of It can also recommend the signing or The Commission the Federal Government. The salary ratifying of any international instru- Funding and allowances of the Chairperson ment. The Commission, as defined by shall be prescribed by the Federal Section 3, will be a body corporate, The Federal Government shall create a Government. The Chairperson will The Commission has been given the which in essence gives it a legal per- Fund known as the National have the executive and financial power to inquire into complaints of sonality, allowing it to acquire, hold Commission on the Status of Women authority, responsibility and charge of violations of women's rights. The and dispose of property, as well as sue Fund, which shall vest in the the Commission. Commission has been given powers and be sued by its said name. Commission and shall be used by the which are the same as those vested in a Commission to meet charges in con- Members civil court under CPC for enforcing Section 3 also identifies the individuals nection with its functions under the attendance of any person and com- who shall form the Commission. Act. The members of the Commission pelling the production of documents. It Members of Commission have sepa- shall not be less than 30 years of age may also, in accordance with relevant rated members into voting and non- The sources of the Fund may include: and must have experience working on laws and with prior permission of the voting members. Voting members fund that shall be allocated by the women's issues and commitment to provincial government concerned, include: a Chairperson; 2 members Federal Government each year as a the empowerment of women. The inspect any jail or sub-jail or other from each Province, one of whom shall non-lapsable grant in the annual budg- Federal Government, shall after con- places of custody where women and be a woman; one woman each from et; donations by private individuals, sultation with relevant stakeholders, girls are kept and to make appropriate FATA, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, national or international agencies, recommend to the Prime Minister recommendations to the authorities Gilgit-Baltistan, Islamabad Capital income from any investments of the three names for each member who concerned. It shall also monitor the Territory and minorities; Chairperson Commission; all funds held by the fulfills the necessary qualifications. mechanism and institutional or designated member from each Federal Government under the title of Provincial Commission on Women's "National Commission's Fund"; and all A member of the Commission shall Continued on next Page 3 NCSW on road to autonomy From Page 2 given official consultative status with damental rights of all citizens, includ- Commission to be laid before the reference to policy-development, ing women, stem from the Prime Minister and concerned procedure for redressal of violation of planning or law-making. It has been Constitution. Ministry and laid before the women's rights. assigned to only 'make suitable recom- Parliament. mendations to the concerned authori- The Commission has not been given The Commission may also act for ties'; 'suggest repeal, amendment or the role of critical appraisal of the It must be acknowledged that the new advocacy, lobbying, coalition building, new legislation'; 'advise the Federal Government. The public accountabili- law does require the annual report to networking and as a catalyst for pro- Government before accession to any ty of the Government through critical be placed before the Prime Minister as motion of cause of women to facilitate such proposed international instru- evaluation was one of the forefront opposed to the President. However, their participation in all spheres of life ment, protocol or treaty'; and 'recom- roles originally envisioned for the apart from the Prime Minister, the cab- including legal, economic, social and mend to the Federal Government the Commission. inet, the highest executive authorities political empowerment; signing or ratifying of international have not been mentioned. There are no instrument'. The Commission is still only charged provisions to ensure serious consider- Major Concerns with 'assessing implementation' or ation and implementation of any rec- The role of the Commission therefore 'monitoring the mechanism and institu- ommendations and suggestions made While many of the amendments have remains consultative and the tional procedure for redressal of viola- by the Commission at any level, made positive changes, there remain Government is not bound to consult it, tion of women's rights' as opposed to including the executive and legislative lacunas which must be filled in order take advice or take note of its recom- evaluation of the progress and the authorities. This includes the power to for the Commission to become a mendations. This has been one of the Government's and organs of state's role inspect jails, sub-jails or other places truly independent autonomous body most crucial demands of civil society - and commitment. of custody where women and girls are with the power to make recommen- to make the Commission a mandatory kept. dations and evaluations of the consti- consultative body. There are no provisions mandating tution, laws, policies and of the serious consideration of the recom- The inquiry procedure under the new Government and government bodies, The review of the Constitution has mendations of the Commission amendments is very welcome. without being subjected to political been excluded from the Commission's by the State. Provisions have been However, the Commission can only influences of changes in the govern- mandate. The Commission's area of made for the Commission to make inquire into complaints. It has not been ment. review has been limited to 'Federal recommendations to the Government given the power to take suo moto laws, rules and regulations'. This and 'concerned authorities' and action to inquire into issues and inci- The Commission has still not been again is problematic as the basic fun- for the Annual Report of the dents. Expectations of the NCSW and its current achievements The 2012 amendments to the law and subsequent The NCSW has conducted research on the different Ministry of Law and Ministry of Human Rights. changes to the NCSW lead to a number of expecta- topics and issues identified and recognized. Such Through these linkages, the Commission has not tions of how the NCSW should function and research is vital as it provides details and analysis only consistently raised women's issues, thereby giv- expected results. The NCSW, in recent years, has of the different situations. It allows the ing awareness and sensitization to the issues, but has played a fundamental role not only with regard to Commission to not only identify the areas to focus proved to be a strong advocacy body. legislation, policy and research, but also in creating upon but also identifies best possible interventions, linkages between the Government and civil society. as well as the pertinent points of intervention. The NCSW is mandated to support the government It is anticipated that this work will be built upon in in the implementation of the government's interna- the next term and become institutionalized along- These studies influence potential future projects tional commitments, as well as recommend the side any future initiatives. and actions to be taken. Most importantly, these signing and ratification of other important conven- studies are shared not only with civil society, but tions. The Commission can therefore play the role With the devolution of the Ministry of Women's also with the government, who also have owner- of coordination between international and national Development post the 18th amendment, the NCSW ship of these studies. One prime example of the bodies, as well work towards making the national is the only body at the Federal Level which exclu- process of research resulting in action is the laws and policies synonymous with international sively represents women. Resultantly, this becomes research on Parallel Legal Systems conducted by obligations, laws and standards. its most fundamental role. As per the 2012 law, the the NCSW. Chairperson shall have the status as equivalent to Another vital role played by the Commission is the Minister of State. Therefore, the expectation is that One of the outcomes of this research and other linkages between civil society and government. the Commission will be considered an important work on the issue, was the NCSW presenting a The NCSW has played a coordinating role amongst institution within the bureaucracy. It must play its petition in the Supreme Court relating to the illegal civil society on the advocacy and lobbying. It cre- role accordingly and function to ensure women's parallel systems purporting to implement law such ates a space where the government and civil socie- representation at all levels within the Federal as the jirga/panchayat systems. This petition is cur- ty can work together on relevant issues. It can Government. It must also encourage the formation rently being argued before the Supreme Court. It is choose to play the role of an advocacy and lobby- of Provincial Commissions on the Status of Women essential that the NCSW continues conducting such ing institution, as a catalyst, as a convener and even and liase and support them. research to encourage and guide future projects and as a mediator if necessary. It provides a sustainable interventions. and official tool for better coordination and hope- One of NCSW's most important functions is as a fully successful strategy of civil society and gov- catalyst for recognition of issues at the governmen- As a catalyst of change within the official frame- ernment interaction and action. tal level. It draws the government's attention to work, some of NCSW's most successful work has issues relating to women that could range from dif- been with regards to legislation. Past work has The 2012 law has officially given the NCSW the ferent forms of violence against women, home included work on the Honour Killings law (enacted right to make inquiry into violations of women's based women workers, women in conflict zones etc. as Criminal Law and the amendments to the Hudood rights. This mechanism allows the NCSW to take Its primary role is to bring attention to the women- Ordinance. In the last term, the NCSW formed the notice of and make queries of violations against specific problems and needs. Although the role of Law Committee consisting of some of the top women. However, it has not given sup moto pow- the NCSW has not been given official consultative lawyers, retired judges and human rights advocates. ers to the NCSW. status with reference to policy development, plan- The NCSW through the Law Committee has worked ning or making related to women, the Chairperson on drafting laws and amendments including Acid It has increased powers of production of documents must ensure it creates linkages which allows it to Crimes, Muslim Family Laws etc. It has also worked and enforcing the appearance of persons before it. make regular recommendations to these with successfully on advocacy and lobbying on the prom- However, it is as important to realize that the NCSW regards to women's issues. Successes from the last ulgation of laws, including the Sexual Harassment at cannot make inquiries to each and every case of vio- term (2009 - 2012) include the recommendations the Workplace, Acid Crimes and this 2012 NCSW lation of women's rights. While it can support civil formulated by the NCSW to the Constitutional law. The Commission has created strong links not society organizations in conducting inquiries of their Committee and the inclusion of some of these rec- only with civil society, but also with different depart- own, the Commission must draw up a criteria of ommendations in the final amendments. ments and Ministries including amongst others, the where it can personally apply this inquiry mechanism. 4 Question of domestic violence and necessity of DVB From Page 1 consonance with the Ministries of Violence (Prevention and Protection) ly introduced by Yasmeen Rehman in Women's Development. They are all in Bill applicable in the Islamabad 2008 was placed before the joint sitting parliamentarians, the government the vetting process and have not yet Capital Territory (ICT) was introduced of the Parliament and became the sub- institutions and addressed publically. been placed before the Assemblies. To by Senator Nilofar Bakhtiar and passed ject of great opposition and controver- Civil society continues to work with date, none of them have been passed unanimously by the upper house of the sy. The JUI-F, in particular, strongly the parliamentarians and legislative by the Provincial Assemblies. With federal parliament. It has however, not contested the law, stating it was 'west- institutions on improvement on these theelections due in 2013, these laws yet been presented in the National ern agenda' and 'undermines Islamic laws in order to ensure their effective- are in danger of lapsing. Assembly. values'. The bill has now been delegat- ness. ed to another committee for further On 20th February 2012, The Domestic In April 2012, the legislation original- examination and discussion. Three private member bills were moved by Mehnaz Rafi, Sherry Rehman and Riaz Fatyana on the issue of domestic violence in the 2002 - Arguments against 2007 National Assembly. The National Assembly Standing Committee on Domestic Violence Bill and responses Women's Development constituted a sub-committee in December 2006 to There have been several arguments and questions raised domestic violence laws which advocate the criminaliza- examine the proposed Bills submitted against the promulgation of a bill against domestic vio- tion of domestic violence, refer to the offences and pun- by Mehnaz Rafi and Sherry Rehman. lence in Pakistan. The most common of these have been ishments accorded in the Pakistan Penal Code 1860. The The sub-committee decided that the laid down below, followed by counter responses: law merely identifies these existing offences as those two Bills should be merged by the which would be applicable in cases of domestic violence. Ministry of Women's Development Why do we need a separate law These also introduces offences which are common in (MoWD) and Ministry of Law, Justice cases of domestic violence and do not exist as specific and Human Rights. The National on domestic violence? laws under the Pakistan Penal Code. Alongside this, the Assembly Standing Committee on domestic violence laws merely lay out procedures to be Women's Development approved the Article 25 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of put in place to ensure protection of women and children Bill jointly prepared by the two women Pakistan allows the State to make special provisions for from domestic violence and implementation of the parliamentarians, in consultation with the protection of women and children. In essence, this domestic violence law and the Pakistan Penal Code 1860. the sub-committee in April 2007. This allows the State to create laws and rules for specific issues It is therefore a necessary law, which has been created in process for the Bill lapsed with the dis- facing women and children, which are being ignored. consonance with existing law and merely expands the missal of the National Assembly in Special laws are usually brought forward for two reasons: law to cover all forms of violence committed against November 2007. women and children in Pakistan. Special laws may be created when certain issues are not However the process pushing for the being adequately dealt with by law such as if there are no  acceptance of the Bill was continued existing laws which cover the issue or discrimination fac- A law against domestic violence by Government and civil society. The ing women and children, or where existing law, in its inter- promotes a western agenda in Pakistan 2007 Bill was circulated by the pretation and application is proving to be inadequate in under the pretext of protection Ministry of Women's Development providing protection or dispensation of justice to a seg- (MoWD) to Ministries, government ment of society. departments and civil society in 2007 Violence against women is present in every country and in early 2008 and was the subject Such laws may also be created when there is a need to around the world, cutting across boundaries of culture, of numerous Government and Civil draw attention to a particular issue which is being ignored class, education, income, ethnicity and age. The only dif- Society forums. by society and the executive, legislative and judicial mech- ference is in the pattern and trends that exist in countries anisms of the country. and regions. World Health Organisation's 2005's "World The Domestic Violence (Prevention Report on Violence and Health" reviewed 10 countries and Protection) Bill 2009 was intro- Domestic violence falls within both categories. It is an and found that rates of partner violence ranged from a duced in the National Assembly by invisible crime. Few discuss it, even fewer admit to it. low of 15 percent in Yokohama, Japan, to a high of 71 Yasmeen Rehman in 2008. The Bill There is tacit acceptance on the part of the society, state percent in rural Ethiopia. Pakistan is no different. Aurat was passed unanimously by the institutions and even the state itself, which thereby con- Foundation reports 610 incidents of domestic violence National Assembly on 4th August dones it. Therefore, there is a great need to bring attention reported in the media in 2011 alone. Other reports such 2009. Prime Minister Gillani stated to this issue. Further, the laws and penal provisions which, as the Human Development in South Asia Report 2000 that the PPP government supported the under normal circumstances, would apply to the violence state that domestic violence occurs in every third house- promulgation of the bill as it fell with- being committed against a citizen wherever they may be, hold in Pakistan and almost 80% of women are subject to in the party manifesto's purview. The are often not applied in cases of domestic violence due to some form of domestic violence in their lives. Minister for Parliamentary Affairs con- the public/private divide in Pakistani society. gratulated the House as well as the Domestic violence is clearly not a western agenda. nation on this moment of pride when There is an unwillingness to recognize offences commit- Domestic Violence laws exist in Malaysia, Turkey and the House has passed a bill to protect ted in the home as 'crimes' as this would be a 'violation' of Indonesia, all of which are Muslim countries. Domestic the women, children and other vulner- the privacy of the 'sanctity' of a household. In actuality, Violence laws also exist in Sri Lanka, Nepal and able persons from domestic violence. the individual being victimized in the home is as much a Bangladesh, all of which are South Asian countries. He noted that along with the caucus of citizen as an individual being victimized in a public place. Domestic violence is a global women's and human rights women parliamentarians, both Prime Therefore, the same protections and justice must be agenda, including that of women in Pakistan. Minister Gilani and President Asif Ali accorded to them. Yet, perpetrators of violence within the Zardari took an extreme interest in the home are often allowed impunity for the violence com- It is the agenda of 610 Pakistani women whose cases passage of the bill. However, the Bill mitted by them and the women and children they live with were reported in 2011; it is the agenda of the thousands was stalled in the Senate, where it was face great danger from the very persons they are meant to of other Pakistani women who suffer domestic violence, referred to the mediation committee trust and in spaces where they should feel safest and most whose plight is not recognized as 'suffering'. Opposition for further deliberation. Upon the pas- protected to a law on domestic violence states that such a law pro- sage of the 18th Constitutional motes 'western culture', which therefore seems to imply Amendment, the issue was devolved to In Pakistan, as is the common scenario across the world, that 'eastern culture' then supports it. This is obviously the provinces, therefore lapsing the domestic violence in most cases is perpetuated against not true. bill. women by men. Therefore, in the terms of Article 25, it is clear and vital that a law on domestic violence for the pro- Opposing domestic violence is a global movement - A number of legislations on domestic tection in particular of women and children is a necessity. which includes Pakistan. Protecting women and chil- violence by a variety of parties have dren from domestic violence must be the priority for been introduced into the Provincial It must be noted that the domestic violence law does not the State as per its own principles enshrined in the Assemblies in all 4 provinces and in create a whole separate parallel scheme. The draft Continued on Page 6 5 ‘ ’ EDITORIAL Life On The Margins Given the increasing number of domestic violence incidents in Pakistan, as well as the entrenched Study on minority women in patriarchal mindset of Pakistani society which con- dones domestic violence, it is a travesty that a Pakistan reveals shocking facts domestic violence bill has still not been passed. It is even more distressing that a bill has been passed The study Life on the Margins, unanimously on separate occasions in both the carried out by the National National Assembly and Senate, but has been Commission for Justice and Peace allowed to lapse, despite the Prime Minister and the during 2010-11 looks into social, Government's apparent support of the law. A failure political and economic conditions to see through this law will contribute not just to the of the minority women in today's weakening of societal social structures, but will Pakistan with the help of a base- result in the continued victimization of women and line survey conducted in 26 dis- will demonstrate the lack of the State's commitment tricts of Punjab and Sindh, the to provide protection to women and children where two provinces where 95 % of it really counts. A domestic violence bill, which minorities in the country happen must be effective and comprehensive, providing to live. 1000 women Hindu and adequate support and protection to the victims of Christian were interviewed, the domestic violence must be passed as a federal law two communities forming 92% of as well as by the provinces and no excuses can be the entire minority population of acceptable in the provision of such protection. Pakistan. The research was lead by Ms. Jennifer Jag Jivan and Mr. ’ The passage of legislation for ending domestic vio- Peter Jacob. Dr. Nafisa Shah, Secretary, Women s Parliamentary Caucus and Ms. lence should accompany a policy framework on Asiya Nasir, Member National Assembly at the launching ceremony of violence against women by the federal government. Besides informing the readers on the study. Mr. Peter Jacob is also seen in the picture This could either be developed as a separate and minority population (p. 26, annex sion making process, with only review of laws and policies to root independent policy or this could also be incorporat- 1) the policy framework (p.13-17) 4% taking part in decision mak- out religious and gender discrimi- ed in a comprehensive manner in the already exist- and the space available for minor- ing and the larger part (69%) nation, the study notes the lack of ing National Policy for Women's Development and ity women with reference to not responding at all. official data on minorities that can Advancement, which was launched in 2002. Any human rights standards enunciat- actually help the civil society and such policy framework should include measures to ed in the International and nation- d) The data showed a government to assess develop- bring in all support structures and services for sur- al legal instruments (annex 11), higher infant mortality rate ment and make interventions to vivors of gender-based violence under its ambit. this study reviews the literature among minorities than national improve the conditions and main- Installation of a hi-tech 'helpline service' and reach- available on the minority women. ratio; 314 infant deaths among streaming minority women. ing out to the survivors of violence should be the Issues such as legal disparity, 3050 births is 10.30% mortality cornerstone of any such policy. Federal and provin- review of personal laws concern- rate which is quite high to Noting the discrimination (de cial governments must also re-visit and revise their ing minorities, religious and gen- national mortality rate that is jure; Constitution of Pakistan plans and strategies in the light of this policy and der biases (p. 40-41), forced con- 8.7% according to World Bank Hudood Ordinances, blasphemy any such existing baseline studies on the preva- versions, lack of policy focus and reports. A majority of the laws, personal laws and de facto; lence of violence against women, particularly segregated data are part of this deceased offspring died either at education policy and curriculum) domestic violence, as well as, on the needs assess- study that affect everyday life of birth or within 30 days of birth - and analyzing the consequences ment of survivors of violence. the minority women. 33.12% at birth and 36.62% of these discrimination, the study within 30 days making it a total also includes practical policy cor- Gender-sensitization of law-enforcing personnel is The results of the survey point to of almost 70% (p. 9). rectives and institutional ways of being highlighted as a major requirement to realize stark realities faced by minority improving integrating minority the objectives of ending violence against women. women needing a policy e) 76% of the working women in the mainstream and The process of gender mainstreaming of institu- response, e.g. women had faced sexual harass- safeguarding their rights in the tions across ministries and line departments at the ment (p.47). conclusions and recommenda- provincial level should include personnel form a) 43 % of minority tions part (p.65-71). law-enforcement agencies. Information orientation women complained of facing f) Living (housing, civic sessions and capacity-building initiatives by vari- religious discrimination at facilities) and economic condi- There are some positive indicators ous institutions should also be undertaken on a workplace, educational institu- tions assessed through income, as well, for instance79% of the number of new laws that have been recently enact- tion and neighborhoods, where- saving, health, education, also respondents hold the ed to curb harmful social practices and acid attacks as 27% had faced in admissions place minority women on the Computerized National Identity as well as sexual harassment of women at work in educational institutions. Most margins of social and economic Card, 74% of the respondents are place. of the minority children are development (p. 30, 36-39). registered voters and 65% having forced to take Islamic Studies exercised their right to vote. 62% for lack of appropriate alterna- g) Though 55% of have never been forced by their tive (p. 29, 44, 55-66). minority women saw the social families to vote for a specific can- environment as conducive to didate, but one fifth (21%) have b) Only 47 % of minority multi-religious living around faced such coercion (p. 40 and 42). women interviewed were edu- 62% of respondents thought that cated (p. 28) lower than the in the wake of a religious distur- The study includes interviews and Legislative Watch is produced by the Resource national average (57% national bance like those in, Shantinagar, objective assessment of the situa- Service of the Legislative Watch Programme for ’ Women s Empowerment of Aurat Publication and literacy rate) and far behind the Gojra, Korian, Sialkot, etc. the tion by three prominent minority Information Service Foundation at Islamabad. urban literacy among women majority community will not women, Ms. Asyia Nasir, MNA, which is above 65% among stand with them. Mrs. Ernestine C Pinto, a Karachi Advisory Board: women (70% of the respondents based senior Lawyer and Ms. belonged to urban areas p.35). h) While the minority Pushpa Kumari, a social activist. I.A. Rehman, Tahira Abdullah, Naeem Mirza — women face a threat in the form Courtesy to: NCJP, a human c) A mere 5.5% of of forced conversion and assim- rights body established by the Editorial Board minority women are members ilation into the larger culture, Pakistan Catholic Bishops' Wasim Wagha, Sarwat Wazir of a political party with a 68% their families tend to control Conference. The Commission Letters, opinions and contributions are welcome. answering in the negative and their autonomy thus the impor- involves itself in advocacy initia- Please write to House 12, Street 12, F-7/2, Islamabad 26% not responding at all. Of tant decisions about their lives tives on human rights issues, in Tel: (051) 2608956-8, Fax: (051) 2608955 these, only 0.4% are office bear- and well being are controlled by particular minorities' rights in Email: [email protected] Website: www.af.org.pk ers and 1.5% representatives. the male, making it a case of Pakistan since 1985. (The report From among these, 18% are not several jeopardizes. 'Life on the Margins' is available Printing funded by: MFA, Norway asked to take part in the deci- Besides stressing a thorough on www.ncjppk.org ) 6 Autonomy and record pro-women legislative review are major achievements From Page 1 said. She explained that in the tary lobbies as a custodian of women's mittees' for this purpose. She said that Standing Committees of Human social, economic and political rights in the NCSW throughout its tenure han- she said. Rights of both Houses, the bill was Pakistan. The NCSW contributed in dled a number of cases of violations of strongly supported by MQM, PPP, the passage of following laws on human rights of women and violence "I am glad that this dream came true PML-Q, ANP, and other parties fol- women: The Protection Against against women by linking the sur- just before the expiry of our term. It lowed suit and it was passed unani- Harassment of Women at Work Place vivors of violence to concerned institu- took us three years to realize this mously. Act, 2010; Criminal Law Amendment tions and by offering them legal help in objective. We were making all-out Act 2010 (Section 509); Criminal Law collaboration with civil society organi- efforts to get this law drafted, dis- "Ironically, though I have no regrets, Amendment Act 2011 (section 332, zations and conscientious citizens. The cussed and finally passed by the this law was passed when our tenure 336 -criminalization of acid throw- NCSW is also pursuing litigation Parliament. But, a plain and proud fact is ending. I and my fellow members ing); Anti Women Practices (Criminal against the parallel illegal judicial sys- behind the success of this legislation is would have felt more relieved and sat- Law Amendment) Act, 2011; The tem of jirgas and panchayts at the that this enactment would have not isfied, if they had got some time to Women in Distress and Detention Supreme Court. been possible without the dedicated implement this law and had undertak- Fund, 2011 and; finally the National efforts of women parliamentarians, en really fundamental follow-up Commission on the Status of Women Ms. Anis Haroon said that the commis- particularly the members of the measures for early transformation to Act, 2012. sion strengthened networking with Women's Parliamentary Caucus", Ms. autonomy of this important commis- civil society organizations and Haroon said. sion for women of Pakistan. When Ms. Anis Haroon said that the NCSW Women's Parliamentary Caucus to act asked if she was applying for the sec- also reviewed the Citizenship Act, as a bridge between the two and to "In all fairness to the parliamentary ond term, she said "yes, I am ready to 1951 for removing discrimination bring the voices of women to the corri- history of Pakistan, as well as, to the take this challenge and accept the against women. She further elaborated dors of power whether it was the pack- history of women's rights movement, I responsibility, if I am given the sec- that the commission also formulated age of constitutional reform or strate- owe my humble acknowledgement to ond term in office. I have been asked the following bills: Acid Crime gies to deal with natural disasters. "We some distinguished personalities, who by several mainstream human rights Prevention Bill, 2011, which is a com- organized one international confer- throughout the process played a piv- and women's organizations and com- prehensive draft law; Hindu Marriage ence, two national conferences, five otal role in the passage of this bill", mitted activists, and also by several Bill, 2012; Christian Marriage and national consultation meetings and 20 she said. "They are Prime Minister parliamentarians to continue in order Divorce Bill, 2012 and; Domestic provincial consultation meetings in Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani and Speaker to make the commission really Violence (Criminal Amendment) Bill, three years, in addition to organizing National Assembly Dr. Fehmida autonomous. Let's see what happens", 2012. She informed that the commis- and facilitating commemoration of Mirza, who in fact, came to its rescue Ms. Anis Haroon said. "I am only sion had formed a 'Legal Committee' national and international women's when at one stage it went into some interested in consolidating the gains as a landmark step to perform this task. days, rural women's day and working kind of stalemate situation. Then, which are still on paper. Since I han- This committee comprises best legal women's days on regular basis during Begum Shahnaz Wazir Ali, Special dled the process and affairs of the brains of Pakistan. "We also went for a these years", she said Assistant to Prime Minister on Social commission from micro to macro comprehensive consultative process to Sector, Mr. Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar, level for this autonomy for three share these drafts with civil society "The outgoing body of the commission Advisor to PM on Human Rights and years, I have gained experience and I organizations, different governmental - all my colleagues - have a sense of Members of the National Assembly know how to work around for secur- stakeholders and concerned experts", accomplishment that we were able to Dr. Attiya Inayat Ullah, Dr. Azra Fazal ing practical results and benefits for she said. perform to the best of our abilities to Pechuho, Dr. Nafisa Shah, Ms. Bushra the women of Pakistan", she empha- do something for the ordinary women, Gohar, Ms. Kishwar Zehra, Ms. sized. The former chairperson said that the who look towards the government for Yasmeen Rehman, Ms. Asiya Nasir, NCSW saw to it that the Protection justice and better economic conditions. Mr. Riaz Fatyana and Senators Raza She said that the NCSW during her Against Harassment of Women at We have done some excellent research Rabbani and Afrasiab Khattak; they tenure had undertaken a number of Work Place Act, 2010, was implement- studies involving review of policies were so committed and supportive to initiatives which made it a vibrant ed at federal and provincial level. and government institutions and struc- get the bill passed that I have no words commission whose presence was felt Various ministries and departments tures like police, shelter homes etc.", to express my gratitude", Ms. Haroon in the power corridors and parliamen- were persuaded to set up 'inquiry com- she said. Question of domestic violence and necessity of DVB

From Page 4 son and access to justice. When such violence countries including Malaysia, Turkey, occurs, this law mandates that the State will provide Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh and Constitution, including Article 9 which guaran- protection and justice to the victim of violence South Africa. The Pakistani domestic violence law tees the right of security and life. because every individual's fundamental human examined all of these laws before drafting its own rights must be safeguarded. It provides support to law.  The law undermines Islamic values and the victims to stand up for their rights and conveys promotes anti-family sentiment to the perpetrators of violence that such violence, The domestic violence laws presented in all of abuse and disrespect is unacceptable and will be the assemblies in Pakistan, including the The domestic violence law contains a series of pro- punished in the same manner as such actions would National Assembly and the Senate, have been visions which re-define existing penal offences with- be punished if they had occurred outside the home. drafted by Pakistani draftpersons. They have in the concept of domestic violence and provides the It provides protection to an individual, whether been subject to mediation committees, vetting by technical and legal procedures to be used for the man, woman or child, within the sacred space of a the different government institutions, including process of any case of domestic violence. It does not home. All of these are Islamic principles, principles the Ministries of Law and Standing Committees. refer to any Islamic values or culture. In fact, it of natural justice,that the Islamic State of Pakistan All parties have been included in the process of works towards strengthening the family institution ascribes to. vetting the law, including JUI-F, PML N and by ensuring that spouses deal with each other with especially the PPP, who have all had plenty of love and mutual respect. There is no protection for men who may be opportunity to make their objections, sugges- victims tions and amendments to the law. It has also been The law merely brings recognition to the fact that in the subject of a variety of public forums organ- many cases incidents of violence do occur within a The law is primarily for women and children as they ized by civil society, where participants domestic relationship and a household. The domes- are usually the victims of domestic violence. have included members of the government and tic violence law does not deal with cases of However, the law is applicable to all persons who are representatives of the different political divorce,which is a separate issue dealt with by victims of domestic violence. parties. It has been passed unanimously by the Muslim family laws. This law protects an individ- National Assembly in 2009 and the Senate in ual and member of a household from any sort of The bill is a copy of the bill passed in India 2012. It is clear that the final drafts that violence being committed against them. It perpetu- and we cannot allow Indian law to corrupt reach the floor of the assemblies are very ates the idea that every individual, no matter the Pakistani law clearly products of Pakistan and are based relationship between the perpetrator and victim, has on Pakistani law and the needs of Pakistani soci- the right to protection against harm, security of per- Domestic Violence laws exist in a variety of different ety. 7 ‘ ’ Envoy visits little Norway in Pakistan to reinforce ties City of Kharian is known as one of Ogarian in Kharian, she was greeted Punjab's most important cantonments. by Aslam Ahsan, a Norwegian- What many of the people, however, are Pakistani, and his family at his resi- not acquainted with is that this town of dence. To greet the ambassador in a over 80,000 is also called 'Little traditional manner, her car was escort- Norway' because of the number of peo- ed by a dancing horse. As soon as she ple who have links with Norway. stepped out, one was treated to another Pakistanis were one of the first ethnic unusual sight. A man looking like a groups to come to Norway from the typical Pakistani farmer in his shalwar outside and had introduced a new cul- kameez and shawl around his shoulder ture. Over the years, thousands migrat- greeted and conversed with the ambas- ed to Norway from Kharian and now it sador in Norwegian, with the rest of is an important place to visit for any the family doing the same. "They look Norwegian envoy to Pakistan. In a Pakistani but they are Norwegians," small country like Norway with a pop- said Landsverk. ulation almost close to 5 million, there are between 40,000 and 50,000 A large number of people from the Norwegians of Pakistani origin. Of village had gathered to meet the this, more than 70% belong to Kharian, ambassador. As she walked through hence the name 'Little Norway'. Back the village, people looked on from in Norway itself, the Norwegian- windows and from rooftops and most Pakistanis worked in almost every just kept on joining the crowd as she field - from being the vice president of Ambassador of Norway to Pakistan Ms. Cecilie Landsverk (left) with a local went around the village, like some the parliament to working in cutting- family during her visit to Kharian. local hero being welcomed. Her visit edge technologies like the communica- edge the feelings of these people who was a rich country because of its oil took her to a primary school and then tion sector, to politics, movies and as have contributed to the development of reserves, it was developed because of its to the Kharian Press Club. Banners taxi drivers. Norway but at the same time have education. She said that more needs to were put up to welcome the ambassa- stayed connected to their roots. She, be done on institutional building dor and she was greeted with flowers. On March 4, 2012, Ambassador of however, pointed out that her govern- between universities. They are in the She then planted a sapling at the press Norway to Pakistan Madam Cecilie ment did not focus on this area alone for process of connecting the University of club and the crowd cheered. "I am Landsverk visited Kharian to meet the assistance. "There are other challenges Gujrat with the University of Oslo to intoxicated with flowers. I have never Norwegian-Pakistanis that live there. in Pakistan and we are investing in understand each other better. been greeted this nicely. I'm hon- Talking to journalists, Landsverk said them." She also said the focus was now oured," the Ambassador remarked. — that it was very important to acknowl- more on education. Although Norway As she entered the little village of Courtesy to: The Express Tribune

‘ ’ KARACHI: ending violence against women - member provincial assembly, CSOs, lawyers, students rally towards press club. ‘ Jab tak aurat tang Rally in Karachi rahey ge, jang rahey ge Immediate legislation on domestic violence in Punjab demanded Civil society representatives demanded immediate legislation on domestic violence on IWD Islamabad: Insani Haqooq Itehad in Punjab. The press conference was organized on the eve of International Women's Aurat Foundation Karachi office along (IHI), a network of civil society organ- Day by Aurat Foundation's Legislative Watch Programme for Women's with other civil society organizations izations and human rights activists Empowerment on 7 March, 2012, at Press Club, Lahore. The press conference was and human rights activists organized a organized a candle-light march to addressed by former MNA Mehnaz Rafi, Salman Abid, Regional Head SPO, Akbar rally on 7 March, 2012, from Arts observe the International Women's Dogar, Secretary High Court Bar Association, Hina Hafeez Ullah Ishaq, advocate Council to Karachi Press Club, to cel- Day on 8 March, 2012, in Islamabad. Lahore High Court, Bushra Khaliq from Wise, Ambreen from Action Aid, Nasreen ebrate the International Women's Day. The event was organized to pay tribute Zehra, Mumtaz Mughal and and Shamaila Tanvir from Aurat Foundation. One objective of the rally was to to the girls and women of Pakistan for appreciate the government, political their ongoing struggle for rights, parties and parliamentarians for their equality and justice. The civil society support for the passage of women members and activists held torches friendly legislation. The participants and raised slogans. The activities also also appreciated the parliamentarians included speeches, distribution of for their role in drafting and tabling the awards to those who took encouraging domestic violence bill in the steps to break social taboos. In the end Parliament. However, since the issue is a statement by civil society organiza- not shifted to the provinces, the partic- tions was adopted and shared with the ipants demanded the provincial min- media. The statement demanded repeal istries of women's development and of discriminatory laws and effective provincial assemblies for the urgent policies for curbing domestic violence, passage of domestic violence bill. Ms acid crimes, traditional discriminatory Shahla Raza, Deputy Speaker, Sindh practices, especially badal-e-sulah, Assembly, Ms Zareen Majeed, MPA- sang chatti, vanni, swara, wulwar and, MQM and Ms Nusrat Sehar Abbasi “ ” honour killings. MPA-PML (F). 8 ‘ ’ Study on honour killings in Pakistan launched Aurat Foundation's Legislative Watch Programme for Women's Empowerment launched its pilot study 'Honour Killings in Pakistan and Compliance of Law', on January 4, 2011, at Islamabad. Her Excellency Cecilie Landsverk, the Ambassador of Norway, participated as the Chief Guest. Ms Nasreen Azhar, Member, Commission on the Status of Women, chaired the launching ceremony. Ms Maliha Zia Lari, the author of the report, presented main findings of the study. Ms Tahira Abdullah, a development worker and human rights activist, was the Guest Speaker.

Ms Maliha Zia said that lack of data from courts, lack of available consolidated data, categorization of FIRs, and reluctance of persons to comment on the inci- dence of 'honour' killings were the main reasons affecting the implementation of the law. The study showed that a lot of cases were highlighted in the media but were not reported with the police or even if registered but not classified as 'hon- our' killings. Ms Tahira Abdullah criticized that almost 77% of the 'honour' killings cases, involving killing of women, end in acquittal of the criminals. Her Ms Maliha Zia presenting her findings at the launch. On her right are: Her Excellency Cecilie Landsverk, the Ambassador of Norway, said in her conclud- Excellency Cecilie Landsverk, the Ambassador of Norway, Ms Nasreen Azhar and ing remarks that it was further required to be seen and studies as to why such an Ms Tahira Abdullah; on her left is Mr Naeem Mirza. abhorrent practice was taking place in modern times. Heroes of the movement remembered Aurat Foundation, in collaboration with Islamabad Crescent Lions Club (ICLC) and ACTION (Advocacy for Change through innovative options and Networking) organized 10 Days of activism, starting from 1st March, for women rights on the eve of International Women's Day. The activities included candle light demonstration, debates at college and university level on 'Women's Empowerment is a Nation's Empowerment', long march with girls students, sem- inar on girls health and adolescent health issues, exhibition of paintings created by girl student of high school and colleges, women poetry recitals and prize dis- (L-R) Ms Farheen Mughal, Ms Rashida Panwher, Ms Kulsum Chandio, Ms Touqir tribution as well as dialogue on 'women's rights and inter-faith perspective'. Fatima Bhutto, Ms Shehla Raza, Ms Humaira Alwani, and Ms Nusrat Abbasi at the consultation meeting in Karachi. ‘ ’ Provincial Consultation on Domestic Violence Bill Aurat Foundation's Legislative Watch Program for Women's Empowerment at Karachi office, in collaboration with the Sindh Directorate of Women Development Department, organized a provincial consultation on 'Domestic Violence Bill' on February 22, 2012, at Sindh Assembly Building, Karachi. Ms Touqir Fatima Bhutto, Minister Women Development, participated as the Chief Guest. Other parliamen- tarians included Syeda Shehla Raza, Deputy Speaker, Sindh Assembly, Ms Farheen Mughal, Ms Shama Mithani, Ms Humaira Alwani, Ms Kulsoom Chandio, Ms Rashida Panwher, (from PPP), Ms Zareen Majeed, Ms Shahnaz Saifuddin, Ms Naheed Begum, Ms Sabra Sultana, Ms Husna Aftab (from MQM) and Ms Nusrat Sehar Abbasi from PML- (F). Government officials from Home, Law, WDD, Social Welfare department and legal experts, civil society members and media also participated in the consultation. The consultation was aimed to discuss the four bills on domestic violence and combine those into one bill. The four bills were separate- ly submitted in provincial assembly by Ms Farheen Mughal, Ms Shama Mithani, Ms Humaira Alwani (all from PPP), Ms Heer Soho, Ms Bilquis Mukhtar and oth- A candle light vigil was organized to pay tributes to women leaders of Pakistan ers (from MQM), and a draft proposed by Aurat Foundation's Maliha Zia Lari. The from various walks of life, including Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, Begum Ra'ana meeting reviewed and compared all the private bills with the one proposed by Aurat Liaquat Ali Khan, Begum Shaista Ikramullah, Begum Nusrat Bhuttu, Mohtarma Foundation and extensively discussed different clauses of the bills. The legislators, Benazir Bhuttu, and Ms Shahla Zia of Aurat Foundation. The vigil was held on rising above their political affiliations, expressed their desire that the four bills March 5, 2012, at Super Market, Islamabad. should finally be given a consolidated shape as a single bill. 8 March 2012 - Connecting Girls - Inspiring Futures

(L-R) Malala Yousafzai receiving award from Ms Tahira Abdullah, Samina Baig from Ms Sabira Qureshi, Sara Nasir from Ms Naheed Aziz, Shahroo Malik from Mr Paul Healy and Marium Malhar from Ms Shehnaz Ahmed. Aurat Foundation organized a ceremony on 8 March, 2012 at Islamabad to celebrate the International Women's Day and pay tribute to girls who achieved excellence in various fields. The awards were distributed among the girls who are role model for society, namely Malala Yousafzai (the peace-maker), Samina Baig (the moun- taineer), Shahroo Malik (the artist), Marium Hote Malhar (the social worker) and Sara Nasir (the sports-girl). Malala Yousafzai belongs to Swat. When there was extreme Talibanisation and militancy in the area, Malala was one of the few who stood up and spoke for children's rights. Shahroo Malik, in 2005, won 2nd prize in Japanese Art Competition titled 'Remembering peace: 60 years after Nagasaki and Hiroshima'. Sara Nasir is the only female karate from Pakistan to have earned a gold medal in karate at a recognized martial arts competition at the South Asian Games in Dhaka, Bangladesh, in February, 2010. Marium Hote Malhar, a Head Girl Guide, along with other girl guides, organized a successful campaign to raise awareness on Dingue Virus. Samina Baig said that if a girl could climb a mountain she could do anything. She and her brother climbed a mountain 6400 feet high, which was never climbed before. They named it 'Equality Mountain' (Koh-e-Brabari).