Karachi: Although Pakistan has proved itself as a responsible member of the international community, there is a dire need for greater efforts to safeguard the rights of children and women in the country.
This was stated by President Mamnoon Hussain during his address as chief guest at a seminar organised by the Sindh Ombudsman. Held at the Governor House, the seminar was aimed at highlighting the issue of excesses against women and children and the role that can be played by the Ombudsman in this regard.
“Pakistan has recently witnessed improvements in indicators regarding the state of human rights, especially those related to women and children. The country has achieved several milestones in protection of education and health rights for children, especially for girls,” said President Hussain.
He stated that Pakistan has recently become a signatory on several important international conventions for the protection of children’s and women’s rights. “The teachings of Islam and education spread by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) clearly highlight the importance of the rights of children and women, and forbid any sort of excesses against them,” the president further said.
He cited the lack of education and awareness, along with the prevalence of a tribal mindset and traditions, as the main reason for incidents of excesses against women and children.
President Hussain appreciated the setup of a Children Complaints Cell by the Sindh Ombudsman and urged all religious scholars, political parties and civil society members to play an active role for elimination of this social menace.
Speaking on the occasion, Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ebad Khan informed that the provincial assembly has unanimously adopted legislations for the protection of women and children rights, while also announcing the restoration of separate cells for children in various police stations.
