Did you know that in Pakistan, women are not weak? On the contrary, they are legally powerful. The issue is not a lack of laws; rather, the challenge lies in:
- ❌ Lack of awareness
- ❌ Not knowing the correct contact numbers
- ❌ Remaining silent
This document outlines 5 powerful laws, official complaint numbers, and practical solutions that can change—and save—lives.
1. Protection Against Domestic Violence
If a husband, in-law, or relative resorts to physical abuse, verbal insults, confinement, or mental torture:
- ❌ It is not a “private family matter.”
- ✅ It is a criminal offense.
Under the Domestic Violence Act:
- The perpetrator can be prosecuted and punished.
- A woman cannot be illegally evicted from her home.
Where to Complain?
- Emergency Assistance: 15
- National Women’s Helpline: 1093
- Punjab Safe Cities Authority: 15 / PSCA App
2. Protection Against Harassment
Whether at the office, university, on a bus, or on the street, the following acts are crimes:
- Staring or stalking
- Passing inappropriate remarks
- Unsolicited messaging
- Blackmailing
The Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act:
- You do not need to quit your job.
- The law is designed to stop the harassment and protect your career.
Where to Complain?
- The organization’s internal inquiry committee.
- Federal/Provincial Ombudsperson (Mohtasib).
- Online complaints are also available through official portals.
3. Right to Inheritance
Whether as a daughter, sister, wife, or mother—every woman has a legal share in inheritance.
- ❌ “The brothers will keep it.”
- ❌ “Sign these papers to renounce your right.”
- These practices are illegal.
The Law States:
- Depriving a woman of her inheritance is a punishable crime.
Where to Complain?
- Civil Courts / Revenue Department.
- Women’s Helpline: 1093.
- Pakistan Citizen Portal: 1787.
4. Divorce and Maintenance (Nafqah)
Following a divorce or separation:
- The wife’s maintenance during the Iddat period.
- The financial support and upbringing of children.
- ✅ This remains the legal responsibility of the husband.
Where to Complain?
- Family Courts.
- Helpline: 1093.
- Citizen Portal: 1787.
5. Workplace Safety and Cybercrime
If you face:
- Workplace pressure or discrimination.
- Pay inequality.
- Online harassment or threats involving photos/videos.
The Law is on your side.
Where to Complain?
- NCCIA (National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency) Helpline: 1799 (24/7 Support).
- General Helpdesk: 051-9106691.
- Email: helpdesk@nr3c.gov.pk
Key Takeaways:
- ❌ The woman is not the problem.
- ❌ Silence is the problem.
Save these numbers. Share this information. Stop the cycle of injustice.
When a woman is informed, the entire society becomes stronger.
