HOW painful it is to know that Pakistan is the second-worst country in terms of gender inequality in the world. Such a dismal and critical ranking reflects a tantalising image of the state of limited progress for empowering women and their equality.

Moreover, it was Dec 18, 1979, when many nations at the UN Assembly accepted the convention on the eradication of all evil customs against women in society. Pakistan had also pledged to uphold gender justice and equality, but nothing has been practically done to steem the ranking of gender inequality. The index of Global Gap 2016 showed that Pakistan was ranked at the 143rd position among 144 countries.

Why are our women not safe at workplaces? They are harassed sexually.

They are mentally and physically tortured.

They are abused and 1(illed in the name of honour.

The government should tal(e steps to eliminate inequality. Also, all government sectors should encourage women to work to achieve theirgoalsin theirrespective fields. A joint parliamentary session should be called to pass bills against honour killings.

Wajahat Abro Shikarpur