Unveiling the Shifts: Investigating Temporal Trends in Crimes Against Women in Balochistan, Pakistan

Abstract

The aim of this research is to assess various forms of violence against women in Quetta, Pakistan. The data collection for this study encompassed both secondary and primary sources. Secondary data were gathered from 2005 to 2020, specifically from the Shaheed Benazir Women Centre and Shelter Home Quetta. Primary data, on the other hand, was acquired through interviews with officials from the Shaheed Benazir Women Centre, Shelter Home Quetta, and the in-charge of the Police station in Sariab, Quetta. Secondary data underwent analysis employing Excel software. The findings reveal that domestic violence cases were the most prevalent, totaling 280 cases, during the specified time frame. Other noteworthy reported crimes include matters related to maintenance and dowries (97 cases), forced marriages (56 cases), women trafficking (53 cases), forced property acquisition (48 cases), honor killings (29 cases), kidnapping (28 cases), murder (9 cases), early marriages (9 cases), and divorce (6 cases).The primary data, meanwhile, was subjected to qualitative analysis. Examination of the annual data on total crimes indicates a consistent decline in reported crimes against women in Quetta after 2014. The results derived from this study emphasize the necessity for policymakers to adopt robust measures to combat domestic violence against women in Quetta.