Virtual University Journals
Search
Search
Structural Challenges regarding Violence against Women: A Comparative Analysis of Law Practitioners and Victims of Violence in Southern Punjab
Dr. Ayesha Khan,Maria Khan,Ayesha Latif
Abstract:
Violence against women (VAW) is a noteworthy social dilemma worldwide. Violence makes no difference in how subtle or gentle it is, but it causes enormous damage to the physical, psychological, and reproductive health of women. The present study was conducted to identify the structural challenges regarding VAW in South Punjab, Pakistan. Using an interpretive research design, Two focus group discussions (FGDs) with advocates, and Ten (10) in-depth interviews with victims, were conducted in Dera Ghazi Khan by using a purposive sampling technique. The findings of the study revealed that attributes like obligatory culture, status symbols, nepotism, and local cultural traditions such as religious rituals, pressure from the offender’s personal cultural rigid customs, peer pressure, and political pressure were prevailing in South Punjab, considered as the root source that prevented “the rule of law” in general and also particularly regarding VAW. As far as women are concerned, this study revealed that the majority of the victims were from low socio-economic backgrounds. There were more cultural and economic stances behind women’s subordination, dependency, and violence than religious ones. It is suggested that, while using a pro-active approach, all relevant systems such as the criminal prosecutorial or judicial system, social media, the health care system, and academia must prepare their revised standard operating procedure (SOP). The SOP needs to be equipped with necessarily resources, budget, and training, with accountability conceptions.
Keywords:
Violence against Women, Low socio-economic status, Cultural norms and values, Right of inheritance
Full Text:
PDF