**NCSW Urges Accountability in Violence Against Women Cases in Balochistan**
The National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) has called for justice and greater accountability in response to the recent rise in violence against women in Balochistan, including a disturbing increase in so-called honour killings. The Commission underscored the urgent need for stronger institutional action and collaborative efforts to protect women’s rights and ensure their safety.
During a meeting at the Governor House in Quetta, NCSW member Ms. Naureen Lehri met with the Governor of Balochistan, Mr. Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, to raise concerns about the growing number of cases involving violence against women across the province. Ms. Lehri conveyed the Commission’s unequivocal position on honour killings, stressing, “There is no honour in killing — murder in the name of honour is a violation of human rights and law, and must be prosecuted without exception.”
Governor Mandokhail expressed solidarity with the NCSW and its mission, emphasizing the importance of collective action to safeguard and empower women, particularly those in rural and marginalized areas. He highlighted the ongoing need to expand awareness initiatives, improve access to legal aid, and strengthen institutional mechanisms that support women confronting violence and discrimination.
The discussion also focused on enhancing the NCSW’s outreach in Balochistan and building stronger partnerships with provincial agencies to advance gender justice. Both parties reiterated their commitment to ending gender-based violence and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable under the law.
