DERA ISMAIL KHAN: Chairperson of the District Committee on the Status of Women Humaira Nawaz has said women’s rights and empowerment remain a key priority of the committee, which is working to support women at the grassroots level across Dera Ismail Khan.
Talking to media, Humaira Nawaz said the committee was constituted under Section 4(e) of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Commission on the Status of Women (Amendment) Act, 2025. She said the forum was created to identify challenges faced by women and recommend practical measures in coordination with relevant departments and stakeholders.
She said the committee’s work focuses on improving women’s access to education, healthcare, employment opportunities, legal aid and social protection. It is also working to raise awareness about constitutional and legal rights.
Humaira Nawaz said special attention was being given to issues including harassment, domestic violence, discrimination and barriers that limit women’s participation in social and economic activities.
“We are committed to ensuring that women, particularly those in remote and underdeveloped areas, are provided equal opportunities and a secure environment to progress in life,” she said.
Awareness campaigns and legal support
The chairperson said community-based awareness campaigns were being launched in different areas to educate women about their rights related to nikahnama, inheritance, harassment laws and available support mechanisms.
She said violence against women was a serious crime and required a collective response from society.
Humaira Nawaz said the Bolo Helpline, available at 0800-22227 and 1097, provides information on women’s rights, free legal aid, psychological counselling, shelter facilities, police protection and referral services to relevant service providers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
She described the helpline as an important support mechanism for women facing violence or needing immediate guidance and assistance.
Development initiatives for rural women
Humaira Nawaz said the committee was also working with the Additional Deputy Commissioner for Finance and Planning to design and propose development schemes for rural women.
She said these initiatives were aimed at improving living standards and helping women achieve economic independence.
The chairperson expressed hope that policy formulation, awareness campaigns and community-based development programmes would help improve the socio-economic condition of women in Dera Ismail Khan.
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