KARACHI: The Office of the Ombudsman for Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace, Sindh, on Monday marked National Working Women’s Day with a seminar underscoring the critical role of women’s inclusion and the importance of safe and dignified work environments.
Addressing the seminar as Chief Guest, Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court Justice Zafar Ahmed Rajput delivered a strong message in support of women’s rights, stating that Pakistan’s economic and social policies cannot be sustainable without the full and meaningful inclusion of women. He observed that societies which sideline women inevitably face stagnation and decline, emphasizing that progress is impossible by ignoring half of the population.
Speaking on the occasion, Ombudsman (Mohtasib) Justice (R) Shahnawaz Tariq highlighted the central role of the Ombudsman institution in protecting working women from harassment and discrimination. He stressed that women contribute significantly in every sphere of life and must be provided safe, secure and dignified workplaces. He noted that the Ombudsman’s office has taken proactive steps to curb workplace harassment through awareness campaigns, seminars, and strict enforcement of the Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010, across both public and private sectors.
Justice Rajput, in his address, rejected notions of male superiority and reaffirmed that women’s rights are fundamental human rights guaranteed under the Constitution. Referring to Article 25, he emphasized that discrimination on the basis of gender is expressly prohibited and that the state is constitutionally bound to ensure women’s participation in all sectors. He also pointed out that societal attitudes often shape the status of women and urged that real change must begin at the household level.
The Ombudsperson also acknowledged the efforts of Mr. Muneer Ahmed Channa, Registrar of the Ombudsman’s office, praising his integrity, dedication, and leadership in advancing the institution’s performance within a short period. He requested the Hon’ble Chief Justice to present him with a shield of honor in recognition of his services.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of shields and souvenirs to the Chief Guest, Chief Secretary Sindh Mr. Asif Hyder Shah, senior police officials, lawmakers, activists, legal experts, educators, media representatives, and women achievers from various fields, reflecting the Ombudsman’s continued commitment to promoting women’s rights and workplace dignity across Sindh
