In a significant stride towards combating sexual and gender-based violence, Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, also holding the portfolio of Population Welfare, reaffirmed the Sindh government's unwavering commitment to addressing the pressing issue of violence against women and children.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the Model Anti-Rape Crisis Cell (ARCC) at the esteemed Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center (JPMC), Dr. Azra emphasized the crucial role of the newly established facility in providing essential support to survivors.
"We thank all those whose efforts enabled the launch of this model facility," Dr. Azra expressed her gratitude, acknowledging the collaborative efforts that made the ARCC a reality.
Established through a collaborative endeavor between the Sindh government, UK Aid, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Government of Canada, Awaaz, and Legal Aid Society, the ARCC at JPMC is poised to offer comprehensive medical, legal, and social services to survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. The launch of this model facility is anticipated to enhance access to justice for survivors under the Anti-Rape (Trial and Investigation) Act 2021, through a coordinated and targeted response mechanism.
Dr. Summaiya Syed Tariq, Police Surgeon, extended a warm welcome to the audience and expressed gratitude to the collaborative partners for their pivotal role in establishing the facility in Karachi. She underscored that the establishment of the crisis cell stands as a testament to the dedication of the State and the collaboration of various stakeholders in the ongoing battle against sexual violence.
Dr. Shahid Rasul, Executive Director of JPMC, affirmed the hospital's commitment to providing specialized training sessions for relevant healthcare officials, including doctors and nurses, on trauma-informed care and the specific needs of sexual violence survivors.
Sindh Health Secretary Rehan Iqbal Baloch emphasized the need for more such facilities across the country to counter gender-based violence, acknowledging the pervasive nature of social evils like sexual violence.
Dr. Luay Shabaneh, UNFPA Country Representative to Pakistan, shed light on the multifaceted crisis of rape, emphasizing the necessity of a collective response across health, legal, and social domains. He highlighted UNFPA's dedicated efforts towards prevention while stressing the importance of a coordinated and multi-sectoral approach, a goal that the ARCC endeavors to achieve.
The inauguration of the facility marks a pivotal step forward in the ongoing efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence, promising essential support and justice for survivors.
