Combatting Sexual Violence: Legal Aid Society Meets Federal Minister
Islamabad: A delegation from the Legal Aid Society met today with the Federal Minister for Law and Justice & Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar to address critical issues related to sexual and gender based violence and the organization’s extensive work across Pakistan. The representatives provided detailed briefings on the ongoing efforts to combat sexual violence and the challenges in delivering legal aid to victims.
The Minister expressed his commitment for a strategic collaboration between the Legal Aid and Justice Authority (LAJA) and the Legal Aid Society, noting that reforms to LAJA are already underway to enhance legal aid services across the country. He further emphasized the ministry’s commitment to introducing comprehensive reforms in the Qanoon-e-Shahadat and the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) to protect the rights of victims and witnesses, ensuring that criminal proceedings remain free from external influence. The Minister reiterated that these legal reforms will ensure the protection of every victim’s rights and that no influential party can manipulate or subvert the law.
The Minister also commended the Legal Aid Society for its significant contributions and tireless efforts in combating sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) across Pakistan. The Legal Aid Society has been at the forefront of addressing SGBV by providing legal aid, enhancing protection mechanisms, and working to build the capacity of stakeholders. Their efforts in creating a safer environment for women and children, particularly those affected by sexual and gender-based violence, have been crucial to advancing justice and human rights in the country.