SHC orders formation of task force for domestic violence victims

KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) on Thursday ordered formation of a task force to help domestic violence victims at district levels, ARY News reported.

In his written verdict, the court said the Sindh government failed in protecting women from domestic abuse. The SHC bench directed affectees to approach relevant courts so their cases could be heard timely.

Justice Salahuddin Panhwar said magistrates must redress complaints filed by affected women at the earliest.

The court also ordered the Sindh government to ensure strict implementation of the laws prohibiting violence on women.

The judge also directed that deputy inspector generals concerned must also initiate an awareness campaign in this regard.

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Meanwhile, the court also sought details of orphanage centers and shelter homes in the province, adding that necessary funds should be provided to such institutions.

Last month, the SHC had directed the provincial chief secretary to submit a report with regard to the implementation of the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act 2013 and ensure that the commission and committees for redressing the injustices to domestic violence victims are notified within a month.

The bench had observed that the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act 2013 was enacted by the provincial government to institutionalise the measures that prevent and protect women, children and other vulnerable persons from domestic violence.