ISLAMABAD: The General Assembly of the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) expressed serious concern over the continued occurrence of killings committed under the pretext of “honour” and called for a comprehensive review and scrutiny of the existing honour-killing laws.
The WPC was held on Tuesday, with a detailed briefing by the Ministry of Human Rights (MoHR) on the alarming rise in cases of honour killings, gender-based violence (GBV), femicide, and premeditated murders in Pakistan. The Ministry’s presentation specifically addressed the legal and policy framework concerning GBV and femicide, highlighting that there can be no justification for killing in the name of social or tribal prestige.
WPC Secretary, MNA Dr Shahida Rehmani, appreciated the Ministry of Human Rights for briefing the members on this important and sensitive issue.
Members suggested that the terminology “honour killing” should be reconsidered, as the term may inadvertently give an impression of legitimacy or justification to such crimes. They emphasised that there is no honour in killing a human being and that every such act must be treated as a serious criminal offence.
The MoHR’s presentation highlighted the legal position that individuals cannot take the law into their own hands in the name of honour.
The members further called for stronger implementation of existing pro-women legislation, improved coordination among law-enforcement agencies and relevant institutions, and effective prosecution to ensure justice for victims and accountability of perpetrators.
The meeting also discussed the shortage of safe, affordable and accessible girls’ hostels, particularly for female students and working women coming from remote and underserved areas.
The members stressed that the lack of secure accommodation can restrict girls’ access to higher education, professional education and employment opportunities. They called for appropriate legislation and a comprehensive policy framework for the establishment, regulation and management of girls’ hostels.
The members proposed that the government initiate public-private partnership (PPP) models for establishing new girls’ hostels and expanding existing facilities. They also called for the construction of new hostels in areas where demand is high and the renovation and up-gradation of existing government hostels to provide safe, secure, hygienic and dignified accommodation to female students and working women.
The General Assembly also adopted a Resolution commemorating the 79th Independence Day of Pakistan and honouring the contributions of Pakistani women. The resolution paid tribute to the women who played an important role in the Pakistan Movement and to successive generations of Pakistani women who have contributed to the country’s political, social, economic, educational and professional development.
The resolution also acknowledged the sacrifices of the families of the Shuhada and Ghazis of Pakistan, particularly mothers, wives, daughters and sisters, and reaffirmed the importance of recognising the contribution of women to the defence, development and progress of the country.
The WPC reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women’s rights through parliamentary dialogue, legislative scrutiny and policy advocacy and stressed that protection from violence, access to education, safe accommodation and meaningful participation in national development are essential for building a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive Pakistan.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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