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Summary PM Gilani has said the present government has taken historic decisions for women empowerment.
Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani says the present government has taken historic decisions in political‚ administrative‚ economic and legislative fields for the empowerment of women.Addressing a ceremony in connection with the international women day in Islamabad on Thursday‚ he said the government has always proactively been pursuing the agenda of women empowerment in line with the vision of Quaid-e-Azam and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto.He said Shaheed Benazir Bhutto was powerful symbol who made relentless services for women uplift. He said the former prime minister sacrificed her life for the sake of downtrodden of sections of society and thus emerged as a rule model and icon for the women.Prime Minister Gilani said the parliament has undertaken landmark legislation for women protection. Issues such as acid throwing‚ forced marriages‚ marriages with Quran and women harassment has been declared offense in the eyes of law. He said these crimes are deep rooted in our society and the legislation done by the present parliament‚ will go a long way in empowering women and helping them taking charge of their lives.The legislation is reflective of our commitment to address women related issues to ensure their greater participation in the mainstream.He said the government is also cognizant towards effective implementation of these laws. He hoped the media‚ civil society‚ academia and other leading actors will play their role in implementing these laws in letter spirit.He pointed out that the women ministry has been devolved to the provinces under the 18th amendment and responsibility rests with them to address the issue of gender equality.The PM said projects aimed at economic empowerment of women have also been launched. He said Benazir Income Support Programme is the largest ever programme to financially support the women.
