Workplace harassment cases have declined, Punjab ombudsperson says

Rawalpindi: Punjab Ombudsperson Dr Najma Afzal Khan said on Wednesday that incidents involving the exploitation of women had fallen markedly due to active enforcement by her institution, while adding that immediate relief was being provided to complainants.

Speaking at a press conference in Rawalpindi, Dr Najma said codes of conduct and inquiry committees were being ensured in institutions where women are employed. She said that out of 1,400 cases received, 1,305 had been decided, and penalties had been imposed on those found guilty.

She said the office of the ombudsperson was working to make sure women could perform their duties in a safe and supportive environment. According to Dr Najma, this approach is in line with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision of safeguarding women’s rights so they can work without fear.

Committees and compliance measures

Dr Najma said both women and men could approach the institution in harassment-related matters. She added that government departments had extended strong cooperation, which had helped ensure prompt relief for women.

She said harassment committees were being established in every institution, with each committee comprising three members. These members, she added, were also being trained to handle such matters.

According to the ombudsperson, displaying the code of conduct at workplaces is mandatory, and her institution is tasked with checking whether organisations are complying with that requirement. She said action is taken against those held responsible under the code of conduct and on the basis of committee findings.

Issue described as global

Dr Najma said harassment was not confined to one region and should be viewed as a global issue that must be prevented. She added that the institution stands with complainants whenever such incidents occur.

She reiterated that the ombudsperson’s office was available to both men and women seeking redress in harassment cases. She also said the institution’s active role had contributed to a significant reduction in such incidents.

The ombudsperson said the enforcement framework included workplace codes of conduct, inquiry committees and institutional monitoring to ensure implementation. She added that the office continued to pursue compliance in workplaces across the province where women are employed.