The Silent Suffering

Inside the four walls of her home, she presents herself as a strong woman: a loyal wife and a caring mother. But internally, she is screaming. A storm brews within her that is neither seen nor heard but destroys her from within. She suppresses her pain to maintain the appearance of normalcy. This silence is experienced by countless women in Pakistan who endure domestic violence in the name of marriage and tradition.

No doubt we have made significant progress and enacted legal reforms in recent years, however, domestic violence persists as a critical issue that remains unsolved.

In our region, the spirit of sacrifice among women runs so deep that they do not hesitate to put aside their desires, dreams and even their rights. For the sake of domestic peace, a better future for their children, and upholding family and social traditions, women conceal their pain behind a smile. But How long will women continue to endure silent oppression for the happiness of others? How many more lives will this silence consume? According, to the Reuters Thomson Foundation, Pakistan ranks as the sixth most dangerous country in the world for women.

Violence against women is a violation of human rights that happens every day across the globe, as reported by UN Women. One in three women worldwide experience physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner, although domestic violence often remains concealed.

According to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, 392 women were killed in the name of honour across the country in 2024. Of these, 168 were reported in Punjab, 151 in Sindh, 19 in Balochistan, and 2 in Islamabad. Additionally, there were 1,969 rape cases in the country, 299 domestic violence cases, 30 incidents of arson, and 43 acid attack cases reported.

Women are active members of every society and possess the same rights as all other individuals. Unfortunately, even in modern times, many women face treatment that mirrors the oppressive conditions of the past. According to a report by the World Health Organization, 38 percent of women who are murdered worldwide are killed by their parents or close relatives. This alarming statistic highlights that violence against women has become a global health epidemic.

Last year, in 2024, a woman in Daska was killed by her mother-in-law during a dispute. This incident highlights the severity of domestic conflicts and family feuds. Recently, another murder incident occurred in Sargodha, where a husband killed his wife because she was unable to give birth.

The story does not end here, in February 2025 another horrific incident took place in Vehari, where the wife of a gambler was raped after losing a bet. Unfortunately, these incidents are increasing every day instead of decreasing. And there are several important reasons due to which many women choose not to report incidents to the police.

I believe one major concern is that their families may not support them. Secondly, how they would be treated and what could happen when they visit the police station. Thirdly, the possibility of being labelled as a divorcee and fear of losing a child’s custody. Fourthly, having no financial independence and lastly, lack of legal support. For these reasons, women continue to face oppression and endure mental stress. Although there are extensive laws in place to protect women's rights yet these fears often prevent them from seeking help.

This attitude needs to change right away. Women should be aware of their fundamental rights and act courageously. They must understand that no religion, society, or law permits the mistreatment of women.

The current government of Punjab has implemented both legislative measures and practical actions to safeguard women's rights. Virtual police stations were established for the convenience of women which are an important part of Lahore’s Safe City Project. In the last few months, the Virtual Women’s Police Station received 82639 complaints from women across Punjab. This indicates that women were able to file FIRs without any barriers, demonstrating that they feel heard and supported when voicing their concerns.

In addition to this, Pakistan has laws that ensure women`s safety, including the Punjab Protection of Women Against Violence Act of 2016. The aim of this act is to protect women from domestic, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse as well as stalking and cybercrimes committed by their husbands, siblings, adopted children, relatives, and domestic employers. Women experiencing domestic violence can approach the court or through the district women`s protection officers and the district women's protection committee to obtain interim protection, residence, or monetary orders to prevent further violence.

Break the silence and speak!

Every problem has a solution. If women do not speak out against the injustice they face, the cycle of injustice will continue, and oppressors will become increasingly fearless. Women should not remain silent about the injustices they face. It’s important to talk to your close relatives and attempt to resolve the issue. If the situation escalates, seek immediate legal assistance, as nothing is more important than your life and honour.