Staff Reporter
Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child organized a Session on to observe International Day to End Corporal Punishment of Children on Friday.
The event facilitated dialogue on implementation of required measured to safeguard our children from this violent practice.
Renowned Child Rights Activists and Civil Society representatives spoke on the said agenda to achieve safe and prospering environment for children.
Khalil Ahmed Dogar, Program Manager SPARC mentioned that Pakistan is among the 69 countries of the world who are still trying to eradicate it in educational institutions.
The key development includes cancellation of Section 89 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) that had allowed for physical punishment in case carried out by teacher or guardian in best interest of the child.
He added that the bill has defined the definition of minor and specified the age of child to less than 18.
The bill defines corporal punishment various forms of abuse and usage of physical force as corporal punishment which will all be punishable under the law.
Senior Child Right Activist Syed Safdar Raza said that the use of corporal punishment is deeply rooted in our traditions and social norms, and therefore results in weak or no enforcement of the existing laws.
Amjad Nazeer, Executive Director, Institute of Development Research and Corresponding Capabilities (IDRAC), mentioned that at provincial level, with exception of Sindh, there is dearth of legislation work.
This new law is a beacon of hope in realizing the protection of our children from heinous act of corporal punishment.
He added that legislation is not the complete solution for eradicating corporal punishment.
