Sindh’s Law and Home Minister, Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar, today announced that legislation is being considered for reserved seats for women in the Karachi Bar, Sindh Bar Council, and District Bar Councils, and stressed the need for their representation in the Pakistan Bar Council to address systemic professional barriers.
The proposal was a key takeaway from a seminar organised by the Provincial Ombudsman Sindh, focused on the challenges encountered by female legal practitioners and the improvement of their professional environment.
Hosted by Provincial Ombudsman Justice (R) Shah Nawaz Tariq, the conference featured detailed discussions on workplace harassment, discrimination, and impediments faced by women in the legal field.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Mr Lanjar emphasised that the inclusion of at least one woman in the Judicial Commission is essential to promote gender balance within the nation”s judicial system.
He requested that all proposals formulated during the event be shared with him to be tabled in policy-making meetings and translated into practical measures. “The legal fraternity forms the foundation of lawmaking, and without the inclusion of women lawyers, effective and comprehensive legislation is not possible,” he remarked.
The minister stated that women’s desks should be established in every government institution to ensure the prompt redressal of harassment and discrimination complaints. He added that as Home Minister, he has entrusted female police officers with prominent responsibilities, with ongoing measures to support their professional growth.
Mr Lanjar highlighted the Pakistan Peoples Party”s historical role in championing women”s rights, citing Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto as the Muslim world”s first woman Prime Minister and a continuing role model. He also noted First Lady Aseefa Bhutto”s effective role in advocating for female representation.
At the seminar”s conclusion, speakers reaffirmed their commitment to jointly work for the elimination of harassment and the effective implementation of workplace protection laws. They noted that women remain underrepresented in courts and bar councils and face negative attitudes during bar elections.
Provincial Ombudsman Justice (R) Shah Nawaz Tariq termed the seminar a positive step, stating that collective efforts are required to eliminate discrimination against women, adding that religion also teaches equality and justice.