Anti-rape cell to open its doors

In a monumental development for women’s safety, Punjab’s first Anti-Rape Crisis Cell is being established in Nishtar Hospital. This initiative, carried out in collaboration with the South Punjab Secretariat and the United Nations, marks a significant step forward in the fight against sexual violence. Under the leadership of South Punjab Additional Chief Secretary Captain (retd) Saqib Zafar, swift action have been taken to set up the Crisis Cell. South Punjab Specialised Health Care Secretary Afzal Nasir Khan held a pivotal meeting with United Nations Program Coordinator for Punjab Sidrah Humayun on Tuesday. The establishment of the Cell aims to address the issue of evidence loss, ensuring that victims of sexual assault receive the justice they deserve. Secretary Afzal Nasir Khan stated, “Due to the loss of evidence, victims are deprived of justice.” With this cell being activated in the emergency ward of Nishtar Hospital, immediate support will be provided to survivors, he added. He further remarked that Nishtar Hospital, equipped with forensic and other state-of-the-art facilities, will play an important role in this endeavor. The South Punjab Secretariat affirmed its unwavering support in the establishment of Anti-Rape Crisis Cells, reflecting the commitment to protect vulnerable citizens. Secretary Specialised Health Care South Punjab also highlighted plans to extend the initiative to other regions. “In the second phase, Anti-Rape Crisis Cells will be established in Muzaffargarh and Bahawalpur, and eventually, in all the districts of Punjab Province,” Humayun said.   Published in The Express Tribune, October 11th, 2023.

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