Daily Times

The Balochistan government has enacted significant legislation to punish the culprits of harassing women and domestic violence aiming to provide an enabling environment to women workers to contribute to the national economy in a smooth manner, an official of Balochistan government said.

Talking to APP, he said a number of laws had already been passed like domestic violence, women protection act, action against harassment of women in the workplace and others such laws to ensure a safe environment for women in the province.

The provincial government was working to ensure a safe environment for the female, especially working class.

He said it was the responsibility of the government to provide security and protection to women and encourage them to utilize their capabilities for the society, adding that the involvement of women folk was imperative for progress of any country.

The provincial Cabinet has also played the ‘Balochistan Gender Equality and Women Empowerment Policy 2020-2024’ to ensure provision of equal rights to the women.

The policy would ensure inclusion of the women in the provincial and national development by providing them equal opportunities in socio-political and spheres.

The provincial government has also set up an endowment fund for women with disabilities, which will provide financial assistance and make them self-sufficient.

The provincial government has fixed special quotas for women in jobs while women have been included in the top priorities at the government level.

The government has also launched ‘Balochistan Women Helpline: 1089’ for registration of complaints against women harassment at home and work place.

The women could register their complaints on the helpline regarding harassment, domestic violence, harassment at workplace and property issues, said the official.

Strict action would be taken on the complaints of women to ensure safe and free environments for women in the province, he added.

He said the helpline would cater women’s complaints about harassment.

The anti-harassment cells would also be established at Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner Offices to strictly tackle harassment issues in the province. He said the cells would also include an investigative arm besides collection of complaints.

According to the official, the government has also established baby care centres in the province.