Pakistani law treats violence against women with special severity. Honour killings can no longer be quietly “forgiven” by the family; acid attacks carry heavy mandatory punishment; rape cases are investigated by special units and tried in special courts with victim-protection safeguards; and forced marriage, marriage to settle disputes (vani / swara) and child marriage are crimes.
Our women advocates represent victims and their families as complainants — getting the FIR registered correctly, insisting on proper medical and forensic examination, protecting the survivor’s identity, opposing bail and compromise pressure, and following the case to conviction.
Relevant Laws, Rules & Ordinances
- Criminal Law (Amendment) (Offences in the name or pretext of Honour) Act, 2016
- Anti-Rape (Investigation and Trial) Act, 2021 (special investigation units, special courts, anti-rape crisis cells)
- Criminal Law (Amendment) (Offences relating to Rape) Act, 2016
- Acid Control and Acid Crime Prevention Act, 2011 (PPC sections 336-A and 336-B)
- Prevention of Anti-Women Practices (Criminal Law Amendment) Act, 2011 — PPC sections 310-A, 498-B and 498-C (vani/swara, forced marriage, "marriage with the Quran")
- Child Marriage Restraint Act, 1929 and the Sindh Child Marriage Restraint Act, 2013
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a family forgive an honour killing so the killer goes free?
Not any more. Since the 2016 honour-crimes amendment, even where the heirs waive or compound the right of qisas, the court must still sentence the offender to a long term of imprisonment. The “family forgiveness” loophole was closed.
What should a rape survivor do first?
Get to safety and call 15 or 1043. Try not to bathe or change clothes before the medico-legal examination, as evidence such as DNA is critical. Under the Anti-Rape Act the examination must respect the survivor’s dignity, and the so-called two-finger test is prohibited.
Will the survivor's name be made public?
No. Publishing the identity of a rape victim is an offence, and the Anti-Rape Act provides for in-camera trials and other protective measures. We also keep every client’s identity strictly confidential.
Is forcing a woman into marriage a crime?
Yes. Compelling a woman to marry is an offence under section 498-B PPC, giving a woman in marriage to settle a dispute (vani/swara) is an offence under section 310-A, and marrying a girl below the legal age is punishable under the child-marriage laws.
What punishment applies to an acid attack?
Causing hurt by a corrosive substance is a separate offence under sections 336-A and 336-B PPC, carrying long imprisonment (up to life) and a heavy fine. Survivors are also entitled to medical treatment and may pursue compensation.
Get Help With Violence Against Women
Every case is different, and the guidance above is general information, not a substitute for advice on your specific facts. If you’re dealing with a violence against women matter, our women advocates offer a free first consultation to review your situation and explain your options — reach out below or via WhatsApp to get started.