Domestic violence is hurting the societies in whole world and Pakistan is one of the country which is facing this challenge since long. It has effected a number of individuals as well as families and left a long lasting impact on the lives of them. World has progressed in every field, Pakistan is also progressing in terms of awareness and education due to the influence of media on the public lives. Domestic violence in Pakistan has different shapes of abuse including physical, emotional, sexual and economic. Unfortunately, peoples feel hesitation to report such cases due to their cultural barriers, norms and values and they feel fear of revenge. Despite of these fears there are multiple examples available in which the effected individuals taken stands to highlight the seriousness of this issue.
It is an issue which has no boundaries and affects persons from all walk of life. It’s not only affect the individual life but it is traumatic for the whole family and society, as it affects the individuals and society very badly. Pakistan Government is striving continuously to compete with this issue and trying to protect the victims of domestic abuse by making rules and policies from time to time. In the year 2016, the Protection of Women Violence Act was a very good step to give protection to the affected persons and punishment to the criminals involved in this crime.
Media especially development journalism is also playing its role in combating domestic violence in Pakistan in terms to raise awareness and challenging social norms as well as bringing meaningful changings in the society by highlighting the issues and giving voice to affected persons. Media also demands accountability from all the stakeholders. Development journalists have produced a groundbreaking documentary “Breaking the silence” to shed light on the hidden widespread of domestic violence in the country. They have included interviews of survivors and analysis of experts to expose the harsh realities faced by the victims. It also demands urgent actions from Government, NOG’s, other stakeholders and general public.
It is also a problem in the Pakistan that despite of existing of rules and laws, the implementation of the rules is not being happening in true manner. So, we as a nation needs to cooperate with the authorities and needs to put pressure on the authorities for implementation of the laws in good sprit.
Domestic violence in Pakistan demands urgent attention and concerted efforts from all stakeholders. It is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach involving legal reforms, awareness campaigns, support systems and sensitizing law enforcement agencies. By addressing the root causes and providing comprehensive solutions, we can create a society where every individual, regardless of gender, lives free from the horrors of domestic violence. Together, let us strive for a Pakistan that embraces respect, equality and compassion and eliminate domestic violence from our homes and communities.
The writer is a student of BS Journalism Studies, 8 Semester at School of Communication Studies, University of the Punjab, Lahore.