Domestic Violence Law in Sindh Fails to Deliver Justice
More than a decade after the Sindh Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2013, was enacted, violence against women remains rampant in the province, with weak enforcement and flawed investigations preventing victims from accessing justice, according to a report by The Express Tribune.
The legislation was designed to protect women from physical abuse, sexual violence, emotional and psychological harassment, and economic exploitation. While it prescribes imprisonment and financial penalties for offenders, legal experts say its impact has been severely undermined by inadequate policing and institutional support.
Survivors Face Barriers in Filing Complaints
Since the law's passage, domestic violence cases have been formally registered across Sindh. However, many survivors avoid filing complaints due to family pressure, and others withdraw their cases because of alleged police reluctance and flawed investigations. A report by the Legal Aid Society noted that domestic violence remains widespread, with survivors facing significant obstacles in accessing justice. The organization stated that weak enforcement mechanisms and the limited financial and administrative autonomy of institutions like the Sindh Commission on the Status of Women have reduced their effectiveness.
Call for More Female Police Officers
Advocate Shazia Nizamani, Chairperson of the Sindh Women Lawyers Alliance, said many women hesitate to report abuse because complaints are generally handled by male police officers. She emphasized the need to deploy more female officers to receive and investigate complaints involving women.
Zero Convictions in 2025 Despite 204 Cases
The Sustainable Social Development Organisation (SSDO) reported 204 domestic violence cases in Sindh during the first half of 2025. Of these, 98 reached the courts, and 70 proceeded to trial—yet no convictions were recorded, as cited by The Express Tribune. The report also noted that police withdrew 14 cases, raising concerns over investigative standards.
Rural Areas Hit Hardest
Local rights activist Akram Khaskheli said domestic violence is particularly prevalent in rural Sindh, where poverty, low literacy levels, and entrenched social attitudes discourage victims from speaking out. The combination of weak law enforcement and deep-rooted societal norms continues to shield abusers and deny women justice.
