Police Harassment of Women in Pakistan — You Have Rights

If you have experienced harassment, threats, or exploitation by police or law enforcement in Pakistan, here is exactly how to report it and seek protection.

Police Misconduct Is Illegal — And Reportable

Police officers in Pakistan are bound by the Police Order 2002 and Constitution. Harassment, threats, demands for bribes, or sexual exploitation by officers are serious crimes.

What Counts as Police Misconduct

Threatening to file false FIR unless you comply with demands
Demanding money to drop a case or avoid arrest
Sexual harassment or exploitation in custody or outside
Using a woman's private information to threaten or blackmail
Pressuring a woman to withdraw a legitimate complaint
Unlawful detention or "informal" interrogation without proper procedure

How to Report Police Misconduct

IGP Complaint Cell: Call or write to the Inspector General of Police of your province
Punjab: 0800-02787 (Police Complaint Cell)
Sindh: 1715 (Karachi Police helpline)
National Accountability Bureau: 1800-01823 (for bribery/corruption)
Federal Ombudsman (Wafaqi Mohtasib): 051-9220802
Human Rights Commission of Pakistan: 042-35761999

Legal Protections for Women in Custody

A woman cannot be arrested after sunset or before sunrise without a female officer present (CrPC Section 47)
A woman must be held in a separate female lock-up
A female officer must be present during any search of a woman
You have the right to inform your family of your detention immediately
You have the right to legal representation at all times

Immediate Help

Edhi Foundation Emergency: 115
Rozan Counselling: 051-2890505
Legal aid via LHRLA: 042-35761999

zinaaa — Where the Law Protects You 💋