First-ever gender-based violence court inaugurated in Lahore

LAHORE - Lahore High Court Chief Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah has inaugurated the first-ever court to deal with cases related to gender-based violence against women, a marginalised part of the society.

Addressing the launching ceremony at the district and session court on Tuesday, the Chief Justice highlighted that the move has been initiated to settle the issues regarding violence against women following the directions of the Supreme Court issued in 2013.

Shah said women have to face many problems during legal process in court due to insecure environment for them. He underscored that secure atmosphere will enable them to record their statement and fight their cases confidently.

He added that one out of three women in Punjab faced violence.

He said, “I dedicate this day to our mothers, sisters and daughters who make 50 percent of our total population.”

An additional district and sessions judge will work as presiding judge of the gender-based violence court, which will work at Lahore Judicial Complex.

Talking about future plans, the CJ said a special court that will deal with cases regarding children will be established soon.

Earlier in March, Chief Minster Punjab Shehbaz Sharif had inaugurated Violence Against Women Center (VAWC) in Multan as part of a comprehensive programme launched by provincial government for women empowerment and protection.