The Gujranwala police establish women enclave, the first-ever general reporting centre designed specifically for women seeking assistance in filing complaints with various state-run institutions, including the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), in addition to police-related matters.
Located in Satellite Town, this innovative centre is exclusively staffed by female police personnel, ensuring that no male staff or visitors are allowed entry, thus creating a safe space for victims to share their experiences.
To facilitate swift action, the Gujranwala police department has implemented a special app that provides log-in access to three key departments: FIA, the Social Welfare Department, and the Punjab Women Ombudsperson. This initiative enables rapid complaint initiation and prioritization of cases involving victimized women. Additionally, the Women’s Enclave offers legal support to help women reclaim dowry articles and inherited properties from their in-laws, engaging leading women lawyers to assist with legal matters.
An official, highlighted that the centre was established in response to the increasing number of violence cases against women. Many victims often hesitate to approach male-dominated police stations, where they feel uncomfortable discussing sensitive issues such as sexual assault and domestic violence. The Women’s Enclave aims to address these concerns by providing a supportive environment with female officers.
Reports indicate that between 400 to 500 women visit police stations each month to report complaints primarily related to domestic violence, sexual assault, workplace harassment, and disputes over property and dowry.
Gujranwala City Police Officer (CPO) Rana Ayyaz Saleem has held meetings with various departments, including FIA, the Social Welfare Department, and the Punjab Women Ombudsperson, to tackle women’s issues outside the traditional police framework.
The centre is expected to serve as a model for other districts across the province, as the inspector general of police has recognized it as one of the best facilities for women.
According to a report by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), approximately 91% of women in the domestic work sector face harassment, with social media further exacerbating these issues. Many women fall victim to harassment through video recordings, photo misuse, and blackmail.
The Women’s Enclave is equipped with trained female officers dedicated to advocating for victims and ensuring their legal protection. The Gujranwala police have collaborated with the FIA’s cybercrime wing to process complaints effectively and follow up on cases, reinforcing their commitment to supporting women’s rights and safety.
