Current social, political, cultural environment restricting women’s mobility rights: ASK

The existing social, political and cultural situation in the country is restricting the freedom of movement for women, the Ain O Salish Kendra (ASK) has said amid surging reports of violence against women across the country.

In a press statement issued today (24 February), it noted that the extent to which women's rights will be protected depends on the social and cultural environment of a country.

"In the current political, social and cultural environment that has been created, there is a sign that women's right to movement is being restricted," the ASK said.

"Although there are many strict laws, it is important to monitor whether the laws are being implemented or applied properly," it also said.

Mentioning the recent incidents of violence against women across the country, ASK said, "The recent incidents of violence against women in transportation, markets, streets, and other places despite the existence of strict laws in these regards are truly alarming."

It said such incidents of violence against women will continue unless democracy is firmly established in the country.

"The issue of human rights for women is related to democracy, and human rights are closely related to the life of a citizen. How a woman's life will be, how her way of life will be, whether her rights will be protected or not - all these depend on the strong establishment of democracy," the legal aid and human rights organisation said.

The ASK called on the government to immediately take initiatives to play an effective role in redressing and preventing the ongoing incidents of violence against women, murder, rape, sexual harassment, and interference with freedom of movement. 

"All parties must remember that protecting the life, freedom, and dignity of women is our constitutional responsibility," it said.

It also recommended prioritising prevention rather than remedy when tackling violence against women.

"In particular, changes should be brought in the education system. In addition to making everyone aware of the law, arrangements should be made to provide self-defence physical education to women and children.

"In particular, arrangements should be made to teach self-defence techniques like judo and karate in educational institutions. In this regard, the concerned government, private institutions and organisations, as well as the common people, should play an effective role. 

Changes should be brought into the social attitude towards women," the ASK said.
The organisation also called for compensation for the victims of such violence and their families.