CHITRAL: A 16-day campaign against digital and domestic violence was launched in lower Chitral on Thursday.
Launched under the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRS)’s Best Forward project, the campaign would continue until December 10, which is observed as International Human Rights Day, where awareness activities would be held to reduce negative attitudes toward women and to ensure they are provided fair opportunities to participate in all spheres of life.
Speaking on the occasion, AKRSP Regional Programme Manager Chitral Syed Sajjad Hussain, director general Kalash Valleys Development Authority Minhasuddin, Lady Sub-Inspector Dilshad Pari, District Social Welfare Officer Lower Chitral, SDO Education Department Lower Chitral Bushra Aman, Khizar Hayat and others said incidents of violence against women were rising rapidly in Chitral.
They said such incidents occured when women considered themselves weak and helpless in society.
“Instead of raising their voices, many women tolerate violence in silence, and there is a need for them to speak out against domestic abuse,” said a speaker.
They said AKRSP had played a significant and commendable role in combating gender-based violence in Chitral, advocating for human rights, promoting gender equality and encouraging women to use their abilities.
Expressing full solidarity with women and girls, the speakers said empowering women through education, skills training and economic independence is essential.
During these 16 days, efforts would be made to raise awareness about gender-based violence, challenge discriminatory attitudes and advocate for stronger laws to end violence against women.
They added that the aim of the campaign is to highlight domestic violence, physical abuse, sexual harassment, and the challenges women face at workplaces, semi-government offices and commercial institutions.
Religious scholars and the media, they said, had an important role in raising awareness about violence against women and the harmful social and economic consequences of early marriages.
