Chapter10

Protection of Women

1. Gender: Gender refers to the roles, behaviors, activities, and attributes that a particular society considers appropriate for men and women. It’s a societal construct that goes beyond biological differences and encompasses cultural, social, and psychological aspects.
2. Sense and Awareness of Gender Discrimination: Gender discrimination involves treating individuals differently or unfairly based on their gender. It can manifest in various forms, such as unequal opportunities, pay disparities, stereotypes, and societal expectations.
3. Social Activities on the Basis of Gender: Many societies have specific activities, roles, and expectations associated with different genders. For instance, certain sports, occupations, or domestic responsibilities are often culturally assigned based on gender norms.
4. Status of Men and Women in Islam: In Islam, men and women are considered equal in terms of their spiritual worth but might have different roles and responsibilities within the family and society. Interpretations can vary widely among different cultural and regional contexts.
5. Gender-Related Problems and Solutions: Gender-based issues encompass a wide range of problems, including unequal access to education, healthcare, employment, and violence against women. Solutions involve societal changes, policy implementations, education, and empowering both men and women to challenge and change discriminatory attitudes and behaviors.
6. Salient Features of Punjab Protection of Women Against Violence Act 2016: The Punjab Protection of Women Against Violence Act 2016 in Pakistan aims to protect women from various forms of violence, including physical, psychological, and economic abuse. It provides legal mechanisms for obtaining protection orders, establishing shelters, and raising awareness about women’s rights.
7. Functions of Violence Against Women Centers (VAWCs): VAWCs are established to provide a safe space for women who have experienced violence. These centers typically offer various services such as legal aid, counseling, medical assistance, temporary shelter, and rehabilitation programs to support survivors of gender-based violence.

Summary: Understanding gender involves recognizing societal constructs, discrimination issues, societal expectations, and legal frameworks designed to protect and support individuals, especially women, who face violence and discrimination. VAWCs serve as essential support systems, offering a range of services for women experiencing violence, ensuring their safety, rehabilitation, and access to justice.

MCQ’s

i. Which thing linked to the GPS has been made for the protection of women?

• (c) bracelet

ii. Within how many days does the court settle the complaint of the aggrieved woman?

• (c) 90

iii. Which is the universal toll-free number for the aggrieved woman?

• (c) 1043

iv. When was the “Punjab Protection of Women against Violence Act” passed?

• (b) 24 Feb, 2016

v. Cybercrime means crimes committed through

• (c) mobile and computer

SHORT ANSWERS

i. Define the term “gender’’.
ii. What is meant by the term “violence”?
iii. Give a few examples of violence against women in the society.
iv. What notable achievement has the Punjab Government made regarding the
protection of women?

i. Gender: Gender refers to the socially constructed roles, behaviors, expressions, and identities that a given society considers appropriate for men, women, and people of other genders. It’s not just about biological differences but encompasses the expectations, norms, and values placed upon individuals based on their perceived gender.

ii. Violence: Violence refers to the use of physical force or power, often to cause harm, damage, or exert control over someone or something. It can manifest in various forms such as physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, or economic abuse, and it can occur in personal or societal contexts.

iii. Examples of violence against women: This, unfortunately, includes a range of harmful actions, such as domestic violence (physical, emotional, or financial abuse within intimate relationships), sexual assault and harassment, human trafficking, forced marriages, honor killings, and discrimination based on gender leading to limited access to education, healthcare, or employment opportunities.

iv. Punjab Government’s achievement in women’s protection: The Punjab Government has implemented various measures to safeguard women’s rights and safety. One notable achievement includes the establishment of dedicated helplines and crisis centers to support women facing violence. Additionally, they’ve initiated awareness campaigns, improved law enforcement mechanisms, and taken steps to enhance legal support and access to justice for women affected by violence. These efforts are aimed at ensuring a safer environment and advocating for gender equality and women’s empowerment within the region.

Give Detailed Answers

i. What services are provided in Violence Against Women Centers (VAWCs)?

Violence Against Women Centers (VAWCs) typically offer a comprehensive range of services aimed at supporting women who have experienced various forms of violence. These services are designed to address their immediate needs as well as provide long-term support. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Crisis Intervention: Immediate assistance is provided to women in crisis situations. This includes emergency shelter, food, clothing, and other basic necessities.
2. Counseling and Therapy: Professional counselors and therapists offer emotional support, individual and group therapy sessions, and trauma-informed care to help survivors heal from their experiences.
3. Legal Assistance: VAWCs often have legal experts who provide guidance on legal options, support with filing complaints, obtaining restraining orders, and navigating the legal system.
4. Medical Support: Access to medical care, including forensic examinations, treatment for injuries, and reproductive health services. This may also involve referrals to specialists or ongoing healthcare.
5. Safety Planning: Assistance in developing personalized safety plans to help women protect themselves from future harm or abuse.
6. Education and Awareness: Workshops, seminars, and educational programs aimed at raising awareness about violence against women, prevention strategies, and healthy relationship dynamics.
7. Social Services: Assistance in accessing social services such as housing, financial aid, childcare, and employment resources.
8. Community Support: Connection to support groups and networks where survivors can share experiences, provide mutual support, and build community.
9. Advocacy and Empowerment: Advocacy for policy changes, empowerment programs to rebuild self-esteem and confidence, and initiatives that challenge societal norms contributing to violence against women.
10. Follow-up and Long-Term Support: Continued support and follow-up to ensure survivors have ongoing assistance, and access to resources, and are on a path towards healing and recovery.

These centers often collaborate with law enforcement, healthcare providers, NGOs, and other community-based organizations to ensure a holistic approach to addressing the needs of women who have experienced violence. The goal is not just to provide immediate assistance but also to empower survivors and prevent further instances of violence.

ii. Describe the salient points of the Punjab Protection of Women Against Violence
Act 2016.

The Punjab Protection of Women Against Violence Act 2016 is a significant legislative measure aimed at safeguarding women’s rights and protecting them against various forms of violence in the Punjab province of Pakistan. Here are the salient points and key provisions of this act:

1. Definition of Violence Against Women: The act comprehensively defines different forms of violence against women, including physical, emotional, psychological, economic, and cyber violence. It covers a wide range of abusive behaviors to ensure a holistic approach to addressing violence against women.
2. Protection Orders: The act allows for the issuance of various protection orders to safeguard women. These include Protection Orders, Residence Orders, Monetary Orders, and Compensation Orders. These orders are designed to prevent the perpetrator from committing further violence, to restrict their access to the victim, and to provide financial support or compensation to the victim.
3. Emergency Protection Orders: Provision for Emergency Protection Orders is available for immediate protection in urgent situations. These orders can be issued swiftly, even outside of court hours, to provide immediate relief to women facing imminent danger.
4. Establishment of Protection Centers: The act calls for the establishment of Protection Centers where women facing violence can seek refuge, shelter, and support services. These centers are equipped to provide medical assistance, legal aid, counseling, and rehabilitation services to victims.
5. Obligations of Relevant Authorities: The act places obligations on law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, and other relevant authorities to respond promptly and effectively to cases of violence against women. It emphasizes a coordinated approach among various institutions to ensure comprehensive support and protection for victims.
6. Confidentiality and Privacy: It emphasizes the confidentiality of proceedings and the protection of the victim’s identity to prevent further victimization or social stigma. It ensures that the victim’s privacy is respected throughout the legal process.
7. Legal Aid and Assistance: The act ensures that women have access to legal aid and assistance throughout the legal proceedings. It allows for the appointment of legal representatives for victims who cannot afford legal services.
8. Penalties for Violation: The act imposes penalties and consequences for violating protection orders or obstructing the implementation of the act. It aims to deter perpetrators from disregarding court orders or continuing their violent behavior.
9. Awareness and Education: The act emphasizes the importance of creating awareness and educating the public about the rights of women and the consequences of violence against them. It promotes education and training programs to sensitize communities and prevent such incidents.

The Punjab Protection of Women Against Violence Act 2016 is a comprehensive legal framework designed to provide immediate protection, support, and recourse to women facing various forms of violence. Its provisions cover a wide spectrum of measures aimed at ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of women in the province.

iii. Describe the functions of District Women Protection Committees (DWPCs).

District Women Protection Committees (DWPCs) play vital roles in safeguarding and promoting the rights of women at the district level. These committees are established as part of efforts to ensure the protection, empowerment, and welfare of women in various regions. Here are some detailed functions of DWPCs:

1. Advocacy and Awareness: DWPCs often spearhead awareness campaigns and advocacy efforts to educate communities about women’s rights, legal provisions, and avenues for support in case of abuse or discrimination. They work to change social attitudes and norms that perpetuate gender-based violence or inequality.
2. Monitoring and Reporting: These committees monitor the implementation of laws and policies related to women’s welfare. They collect data on cases of violence against women, analyze trends, and prepare reports for relevant authorities to address gaps or areas needing improvement.
3. Response and Support: DWPCs provide support and guidance to women facing various forms of violence or discrimination. They often collaborate with local authorities, NGOs, and support services to ensure victims receive appropriate assistance, legal aid, counseling, and shelter.
4. Policy Recommendations: They offer suggestions and recommendations to policymakers based on their observations and experiences on the ground. These inputs help in the formulation of effective policies and interventions for women’s safety and empowerment.
5. Capacity Building: DWPCs conduct training programs and workshops for stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, judicial bodies, healthcare providers, and community leaders. This aims to enhance their understanding of women’s issues and improve their response to cases of violence or discrimination.
6. Coordination and Networking: These committees facilitate coordination among various stakeholders working on women’s issues. They collaborate with government departments, NGOs, civil society organizations, and other relevant bodies to maximize resources and ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing women’s concerns.
7. Community Engagement: DWPCs engage with communities to encourage their active participation in promoting gender equality and preventing violence against women. They organize community meetings, discussions, and outreach programs to involve the public in addressing these issues collectively.
8. Research and Analysis: Some DWPCs conduct research studies or surveys to gather insights into the root causes and prevalent forms of violence against women in their districts. This research helps in designing targeted interventions and programs.

Overall, DWPCs serve as crucial platforms at the district level, working towards creating a safer and more equitable environment for women by combining advocacy, support services, monitoring, and policy recommendations.