Anti-rape crisis cell (ARCC) established in PIMS for rape victims

First Anti-Rape Crises Cell in Islamabad established in PIMS by the Ministry of Law and Justice and Ministry of Health with the support from the UK Government, UN Population Fund (UNFPA) and Legal Aid Society.

Anti-Rape (Investigation and Trial) Act, 2021, necessitated the establishment of anti-rape cells across districts to provide sexual violence survivors with access to multiple services including the registration of first information reports (FIR), collection of evidence and a medical examination within six hours.

“This ARCC will be helpful in addressing the critical issues of gender-based violence,” the press release quoted Raja Naeem Akbar, secretary of the law ministry, as saying.

Confidential and quick medico-legal services are crucial for survivors of rape.

An Anti-Rape Crisis Centre with specialized medical and legal services under one roof at PIMS Hospital is inaugurated today by @JaneMarriottUK . The Centre is established by @ministry_law &… pic.twitter.com/9xVewUc5lP

— UNFPA Pakistan (@UNFPAPakistan) January 15, 2024

Dr. Luay Shabaneh, UNFPA Representative said ‘Rape is an ugly crime which causes lifelong pain and psychological trauma to those who face it. By all means, rape is a crisis which needs a collective response.

Chief guest Ms. Jane Marriot, UK’s High Commissioner, said “Antirape crisis cell in PIMS Islamabad is a significant milestone in addressing gender-based violence in Pakistan.”