Sir: The citizens of civilized western societies call for liberty and empowerment of women through gender equality and equal opportunities in education, decision-making, political representation and business leadership. However, it is a matter of great concern that Pakistani society has failed even to ensure protection of life and honour of women. It is regrettable that there is a great difference between our society and western societies according to social norms and moral values. In our society, gender discrimination prevails and women are treated like cattle and commodities to be sold in the market. Women are harassed without fear of law. Recently, a gambler sold his 20-year-old daughter to the owner of a gambling den for Rs 100,000 in Shikarpur, Sindh. A 10-year-old girl was raped by a man at her home in Faisalabad. These incidents are crystal clear examples of barbarism and tyranny prevailing in our society. It is our moral, civic and social responsibility to ensure protection of rights, honour and lives of female members of our society. SHAIKH ABDUL RASHEED Shikarpur