Peshawar: Ombudsperson Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ms. Rubab Mehdi, provided a comprehensive departmental briefing to Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Mr. Faisal Karim Kundi, on the objectives, mandate, and overall performance of the Ombudsperson Secretariat for Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace.
During the briefing, Ms. Rubab Mehdi highlighted the institution’s role in addressing complaints of workplace harassment and ensuring prompt relief and justice for women. She informed the Governor that from July to December, the office received 8,250 complaints related to women’s issues, out of which 105 cases were decided, reflecting the institution’s commitment to timely grievance redressal.
The Ombudsperson also shared that the Secretariat has been actively conducting open courts in Malakand, Mardan, and Hazara divisions to facilitate women in remote areas and ensure easier access to justice.
As part of preventive and awareness measures, Ms. Rubab Mehdi proposed enhanced institutional collaboration, including MoUs with universities, webinars, and engagement with members of the Provincial and National Assemblies, aimed at strengthening mechanisms to prevent harassment of women employees in academic institutions.
Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mr. Faisal Karim Kundi appreciated the efforts and performance of the Ombudsperson Secretariat in the prompt disposal of complaints and delivery of justice to women. He acknowledged that the institution plays a vital role in protecting women’s rights and addressing their grievances in society.
The Governor also noted that women continue to face harassment and discrimination both at workplaces and in social settings, emphasizing the need to further enhance the capacity and resources of the institution so that it can effectively address complaints and provide stronger protection to women across the province.
The meeting underscored the shared commitment of the provincial leadership and the Ombudsperson Secretariat to strengthen safeguards for women, promote safe workplaces, and ensure effective protection of women’s rights in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
