The Alarming Reality of Gender-Based Violence in Punjab
In the first half of 2025, the Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO) unveiled a troubling report that revealed over 15,000 cases of gender-based violence in Punjab. Among these, 51 kidnappings and 24 instances of domestic violence paint a stark picture of the challenges women face daily in the region. On average, at least 85 women experience violence every day, with nine facing sexual assault. These statistics highlight a pressing issue that demands our immediate attention.
Lahore, the provincial capital, was identified as the district with the highest burden of violence against women, recording a staggering 340 cases of sexual assault, 3,018 kidnappings, and 2,115 domestic violence incidents. Other cities like Multan, Gujranwala, and Sialkot also reported high numbers, further emphasizing the widespread nature of this crisis.
The report categorized various forms of violence, including honour killings, trafficking, and cyber harassment. Strikingly, cases of cyber harassment were reported in only five districts, which SSDO attributes to unequal access to digital complaint systems. Sadly, many districts failed to provide required data, raising serious concerns about transparency and accountability. The absence of this information undermines trust in law enforcement and obscures the true scale of the issue.
Despite the SSDO acknowledging that increased reporting could indicate improved awareness and performance, they caution that gaps in data can lead to misinformation and public mistrust. Thus, more needs to be done to create effective reporting and referral systems.
To combat this alarming trend, the SSDO calls for coordinated efforts to enhance police investigative capacity, ensure prompt judicial action, and expand support services like shelters and legal aid for survivors. Only through transparent data and community-driven initiatives can we begin to safeguard the rights, safety, and dignity of women across Punjab.
If you’re interested in learning more about how to advocate for change or support efforts to combat gender-based violence, connecting with organizations like Pro21st can be a meaningful step forward. Together, we can make a difference.
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