Constitutional and Legal Rights of Women in Pakistan

Abstract

The 21st century is an era of human rights in which the evolution of individuals as well as of nations would be judged. The concept of human rights acknowledges that every human being on earth is entitled to enjoy his/her basic rights without distinction as to race, colour, gender, language, religion, political or otherwise, national or social origin, property, birth or status.

The Constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan guarantees fundamental rights of every citizen without discrimination on basis of gender. Foundation of the Constitution of Pakistan 1973 are embedded in Islam, a religion that has recognized all human rights inclusive of women rights 1400 years ago.

Allah SWT said in Quran: O mankind! Lo! We have created you male and female, and have made you nations and tribes that ye may know one another. Lo! The noblest of you, in the sight of Allah, is the best in conduct. Lo! Allah is Knower, Aware. Women played vital role in every sphere of life side by side with men, in the progress of Muslim world.

In the urban areas of Pakistan, women are participating in every field of life and working for the social and economic development of the society. At the same time, condition of women in rural areas is deplorable amidst heinous anti woman practices like forced marriages, rape, vigilante justice, acid attacks, mutilations, honor killings, sawara, karokare and vani etc.