ISLAMABAD -UNS: Senate Functional Committee on Human Rights, chaired by Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri, expressed grave concern over the rising incidents of gender-based violence and the recent tragedy in Swat, calling for immediate institutional accountability, stronger legal frameworks, and enhanced emergency preparedness. Among those present were Senators Poonjo Bheel, Qurat-ul-Ain Marri, Irfan-ul-Haque Siddiqui, Mohammad Humayun Mohmand, Dost Muhammad Khan, Raja Nasir Abbas, Ali Zafar, Dr. Zarqa Suharwardy Taimur and Falak Naz. The parents of the deceased 17-year-old Sana Yousaf were also invited to the meeting as special attendees.
The Committee received a detailed briefing from the Islamabad Police on the assault case of 17-year-old Sana Yousaf. Members appreciated the swift response by Islamabad Police, noting that the suspect was apprehended within 48 hours and that critical evidence, including the weapon, forensic samples, and digital devices, was secured and submitted in a timely manner. However, the Committee highlighted persistent weaknesses in the prosecution process that often result in culprits evading justice. Senator Irfan Siddiqui stressed that many cases lose strength during prosecution due to procedural loopholes and weak follow-through after the challan is filed. He emphasized the need for greater coordination between investigators and prosecutors to ensure that cases are pursued effectively in court. Police officials acknowledged previous shortcomings in handling evidence but assured that in the present case, all protocols were followed. The Committee further called for increased public awareness campaigns and school-based education to address growing concerns around harassment and violence targeting women and children. The mother of Sana Yousaf was asked by the Committee during the meeting if she was satisfied with the action taken by Islamabad Police so far, she expressed full satisfaction. The Chairperson Committee said she felt very sorry and devastated at the loss of a precious life like Sana’s however the quick and meticulous investigation into and handling of the case by Islamabad Police deserves commends.
The Committee also reviewed the tragic drowning of 13 tourists, including women and children, in the River Swat. Chairperson Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri expressed deep dissatisfaction with the lack of emergency preparedness despite weather advisories and prior awareness efforts. She questioned the absence of an early warning system, proper rescue equipment, and trained personnel at a high-risk tourist location. The Committee was dismayed to learn of delayed response times, unrecorded emergency calls, and the lack of actionable coordination between local authorities and hotels operating near riverbanks. Emphasizing that lives must not be treated casually, the Chairperson stated that this could have happened to anyone’s family. The Committee directed that all hospitality establishments in vulnerable areas must implement fencing, safety protocols, and tourist alerts, and resolved to hold a follow-up meeting to assess compliance and determine responsibility for the failures observed.
In addition, the Committee deliberated on The National Commission on the Rights of the Child (Amendment) Bill 2023 and The ICT Rights of Persons with Disability Bill 2024, both moved by Senator Dr. Zarqa Suharwardy Taimur. The Committee directed the Ministry to complete consultations and submit a finalized version by 14th July, stating that no further extensions would be granted. It was further emphasized that oversight responsibilities related to disability rights should remain with ICT authorities and that child rights bodies must operate with clearly defined independence and authority.
The Committee reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the rights and lives of vulnerable citizens and underscored the need for timely, coordinated, and accountable governance across all relevant departments.
