THE Aurat Foundation reports that 8,458 cases were recorded in 2009 among the four provinces where Punjab topped with 5,655 cases, Balochistan followed with 237 and finally Islamabad with 172 cases.

The sad fact is that many cases go unreported. Almost 1,384 daughters of Pakistan were murdered, 928 were raped, 683 committed suicide and 604 were killed in the name of honour during the year.

The UNPF says that about 5,000 Muslim women all over the world are victims of honour killings.

Is it a crime to be a woman?

It is important for legislators to improve women’s status in society to reduce violence.

DODA RASHEED
Turbat

Source: Dawn

Date:2/18/2011