ISLAMABAD: The Law and Justice Com­m­ission of Pakistan (LJCP) on Friday expressed gra­ve concern over significant increase in gender-based violence (GBV) na­­tionwide while citing a recent report titled, “Un­­veiling Shadows: An Ov­­erview of Gender-Based Violence Cases, 2023”.

The report, which provided an in-depth analysis of GBV trends throug­hout the country, focuses on cases adjudicated under the Pakistan Penal Code and the Prevention of Elect­ronic Crimes Act, 2016 (Peca) during 2023.

In response to the urgent need for action, the commission proposed a key initiative in 2019 and the National Judicial Policy Making Commit­tee (NJPMC) directed the establishment of specialised courts dedicated to GBV cases across the country.

This report evaluates the effectiveness of these 480 courts established across the country.

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On case statistics, the report mentioned the backlog of unresolved GBV cases increased significantly from 21,891 to 39,655 by year-end, an 81 per cent rise.

Punjab saw its backlog nearly double from 16,958 to 34,350 cases. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s backlog increased by 14pc from 2,230 to 2,547 cases. Sindh’s backlog grew by 3pc from 1,453 to 1,495 cases, while Ba­­lo­chistan and Islamabad reported slight increases of 2pc and 1pc, respectively.

The part of the report reviews the types of GBV cases addressed during the year.

Sexual violence rema­ins the most pressing issue, with ongoing challenges in resolution.

Gender-based killings have risen, though the backlog in gender-based harm cases has decrea­sed. Marriage-related of­­fences have seen an inc­rease in pending cases, while economic violence cases have decreased.

Gender-based intimidation and threats have fallen, whereas gender-based electronic crimes have risen, the LJCP stated in its findings.

Low conviction rate

On the judicial outcomes, the report revealed a troublingly low conviction rate of 5pc and a high acquittal rate of 64pc. This trend is consistent across provinces and indicates systemic issues requiring immediate reform.

The report concludes with recommendations for addressing these issues, including a thorough review of acquittal cases, enhanced training for judicial officers and prosecutors, strengthened victim support services, increased public awareness, improved case management practices, legislative review, better resource allocation, and robust monitoring and accountability systems.

Overall, this report is essential for understanding the current state of GBV cases in Pakistan and will inform future actions and reforms, the LJCP said, adding that it remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the protection of human rights.

A comprehensive follow-up report will be developed at the end of the year, continuing efforts to foster a just and equitable society free from fear and violence.

Additionally, the LJCP said it issued “Gender-In­clusive Legislation: Fra­me­work for Equity, Emp­owerment and Justice”. This essential compendium provides a comprehensive overview of federal and provincial laws and rules aimed at adv­a­ncing women’s rights, in­­cluding key legislation on gender-based violence, discrimination, econo­m­­ic empowerment, and political participation.

By enhancing understanding and implementation of these laws, the document reaffirms the LJCP’s commitment to fostering gender equality and an inclusive society.

It serves as a vital resource for policymakers, legal practitioners, and advocates, underscoring the ongoing need to address systemic barriers and ensure the full realisation of women’s rights.

Published in Dawn, August 3rd, 2024