Key steps taken in Balochistan for Anti-Rape Act implementation and Crisis Cell establishment

QUETTA, Nov 22 (EPI) :  The Legal Aid Society (LAS), in collaboration with the Ministry of Law and Justice, the Government of Balochistan, and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), hosted a pivotal consultation to strengthen the implementation of the Anti-Rape (Investigation and Trial) Act, 2021, and establish Anti-Rape Crisis Cells (ARCCs) in Balochistan.

The event underscored the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration, uniting government officials, legal experts, and key stakeholders to address challenges and develop survivor-centric strategies.

Discussions focused on barriers to implementing the Act and the operational requirements for ARCCs, which aim to provide medical, psychological, and legal support to survivors of sexual violence.

The event commenced with remarks by Sadia Atta, Program Coordinator for UNFPA, “All of you present here, it is through your contributions and input that a proper action plan will be developed, which will help UNFPA and the Department of Health Balochistan move forward,” she said, highlighting the importance of collective effort.

Raja Naeem Akbar, Federal Secretary of Law and Justice, emphasised, “Coordination between the federal and provincial governments is essential, and we are committed to doing whatever is necessary to strengthen it.”

J. R. Sultan, Section Officer from the Ministry of Law and Justice, led the session on requirements under the law and reflected, “A more victim-centric, suspect-focused and context-led approach will ensure desired result under the Anti-Rape Act, 2021.”

Further support came from Mujeeb Ur Rehman Panezai, Secretary of the Health Department, who reaffirmed, “The Health Department is committed to bridging the gaps in support systems for survivors and ensuring they receive the care and assistance they need.”

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