Over 173,000 Cases of Violence Against Women Reported in Pakistan in Four Years
Pakistan’s Human Rights Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar has revealed shocking statistics showing over 173,000 cases of violence against women were reported across the country between 2021 and 2024, including more than 7,500 murders.
Key Statistics (2021-2024)
- 7,500+ women murdered (1,553 honor killings)
- 17,771 rape and gang-rape cases reported
- 121 women sexually assaulted in custody
- 9,799 cases of domestic brutality
- 632 workplace sexual harassment complaints
Official Data Shows Alarming Trend
Minister Tarar presented the National Police Bureau data to the National Assembly on November 7 in response to a question from JUI-F’s Naeema Kishwar Khan. The figures reveal a disturbing year-on-year increase in violence against women.
Yearly Case Breakdown
- 2021: 30,757 cases
- 2022: 35,477 cases
- 2023: 46,036 cases
- 2024: 61,997 cases
Honor Killings and Under-Reporting
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan estimates approximately 1,000 women are killed annually in honor-based crimes, with actual numbers likely higher due to under-reporting.
Notable Case: Qandeel Baloch
In 2016, social media personality Qandeel Baloch was strangled by her brother for defying societal norms, highlighting the extreme risks faced by women seeking independence.
Systemic Challenges Persist
Despite legal reforms and increased awareness, systemic gender discrimination and violence continue to impede women’s progress in Pakistan. The situation remains a critical human rights concern requiring urgent attention.
