By NNN-APP,
Karachi : President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday signed the bill, providing for increased punishment over harassment of women at workplaces.
The Protection against Harassment of Women at Workplace Bill 2009” Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2009 amends both the Pakistan Penal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure, “increasing the punishment for the crime up to three years in prison and a fine of up to Rs 500,000.
The President signed the bill in the presence of a large number of women hailing from different sections of the society.
The gathering termed it a landmark decision by the government, reflecting the desire of the government to ensure dignity and honour of the women.
According to the bill whosever makes any sound or gesture, utters any word, exhibits any object or demands sexual favour from woman at workplace would face the punishment.
President Zardari on the occasion said the emancipation and empowerment of the women of the country was a cherished dream of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto who throughout her life fought for this cause.
“Our Government in line with the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, taking all steps to ensure that women of this country are not only emancipated from exploitation of all forms but are also empowered in real sense.”
The President said emancipation of women and giving them rightful place in the society forms part of PPP manifesto.
“We can only ensure this by providing financial security and stability and creating opportunities for women,” he said.
He said launching Benazir Income Support Program was manifestation of this commitment and mentioned that direct financial support provided through this program was enabling the women to support themselves and their families.
The President emphasized that the objective was to turn BISP into a comprehensive social protection scheme and a platform for women empowerment, health and accident insurance, vocational training and interest free financing for self employment of the poor.
He said besides BISP, the construction of 12 new dams was underway in all four provinces and the land of the command area would be distributed into landless poor women so that they could be provided an opportunity to attain financial stability and security.
The President said this amendment would ensure protection to women from harassment at workplace.
The bill was unanimously passed by the National Assembly on Jan 21, a day after its passage from the Senate. It also proposes penalties including reduction to lower post, compulsory retirement, removal from service and dismissal from service.