The National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) has reaffirmed its support for advancing women’s rights in Gilgit-Baltistan, following a meeting with a delegation from the region led by former NCSW member Irum Wali Khan. The delegation visited the NCSW office in Islamabad to seek assistance in establishing an Ombudsperson Office in Gilgit-Baltistan, which would play a key role in safeguarding women’s property rights, dignity, and protection against harassment. They also advocated for the creation of a provincial Commission on the Status of Women and the appointment of its Chairperson.
NCSW Chairperson Ume-Laila Azhar gave her full support to these initiatives, highlighting the importance of a robust local government system to empower women and address barriers to their rights at the community level. She stressed that empowering local governance would help resolve challenges faced by women efficiently and effectively.
Azhar also expressed concern about any possible changes to the criteria for appointing the Chairperson of provincial women’s commissions, urging the Gilgit-Baltistan government to ensure transparency and merit in the selection process. She emphasized NCSW’s ongoing commitment to collaborating with the women of Gilgit-Baltistan for a future where they can live without fear or obstacles to their growth and success.
