Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh

PRESS RELEASE
Sindh Human Rights Commission
Government of Sindh
Dated: 17th February, 2026

Visit of Mr. Rajvir Singh Sodha, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Sindh on Human Rights, to District Thatta Successfully Concluded

The visit of Mr. Rajvir Singh Sodha, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Sindh on Human Rights, to District Thatta was successfully conducted on 17th February, 2026.

He was accompanied by Mr. Agha Fakhur Hussain, Secretary, Sindh Human Rights Commission, and Director, Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh, along with the Honourable Judicial Members of the Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC), namely:
• Mr. Ahmed Luqman Memon, Judicial Member, SHRC (Retd. Sessions Judge)
• Mr. Iqbal Hussain Maitlo, Judicial Member, SHRC (Retd. Sessions Judge)
• Mr. Anandram D. Sairani, Judicial Member, SHRC (Retd. Sessions Judge)
• Ms. Tahseen Fatima, Member, SHRC

Upon arrival, the delegation was received by the Mr. Sarmad Ali Bhagat , Deputy Commissioner THATTA . A meeting of the District Human Rights Committee (DHRC) was convened at Darbar Hall, DC Office Thatta, wherein detailed briefings were presented by relevant line departments regarding the prevailing human rights situation in the district.

Identification and Review of Human Rights Issues

It was noted that the key human rights concerns under discussion — including access to clean drinking water in coastal areas affected by sea intrusion, healthcare deficiencies, education gaps, climate-related displacement, women and child rights concerns, and barriers to access to justice — had earlier been identified during a visit conducted approximately six months ago by the Mis Tahseen Fatima Secretary, Human Rights Department, along with the Agha Fakhur Hussain, Director, Human Rights, Government of Sindh.

During the present meeting, the concerned district officers presented progress reports on actions taken since that earlier visit. It was informed that several issues have been addressed through administrative measures and coordinated efforts of the district administration.

However, certain matters remain pending due to structural and resource-related constraints. The concerned departments were directed to expedite remedial measures and ensure compliance in accordance with applicable legal and policy frameworks.

Public Engagement and Institutional Coordination

An Open Kacheri (public hearing) was conducted to hear grievances of citizens relating to human rights matters. Necessary directions were issued for prompt redressal of genuine complaints.

Meetings were also held with the Honourable District & Sessions Judge Thatta and the District Bar Association to strengthen coordination for effective protection of fundamental rights.

The delegation further visited the Safe House Thatta and District Model Jail Thatta to review facilities and compliance with human rights standards. The functions and facilities at Model Jail were highly appreciated and for Safe House Thatta , observations and recommendations were made for further institutional improvements.

Role of District Administration

The Sindh Human Rights Commission acknowledged the effective cooperation of the Mr Sarmad Ali Bhagat Deputy Commissioner Thatta, who actively participated in the meeting and accompanied the delegation during key engagements of the visit. His administrative support and coordination were appreciated for facilitating smooth conduct of the program.

Institutional Follow-Up

The Sindh Human Rights Commission shall issue a detailed report on the visit, including findings, observations, and recommendations, which will be submitted to the Government of Sindh in the coming weeks for further policy consideration and necessary action.

Conclusion

The visit concluded successfully with reaffirmation of the Government of Sindh’s commitment to promoting, protecting, and enforcing human rights in District Thatta through strengthened coordination, monitoring, and institutional accountability.

Issued by
Directorate of Human Rights
Human Rights Department
Government of Sindh

PRESS RELEASE
Office of the Director, Human Rights
Government of Sindh
Dated: 17th February, 2026

Official Visit of Mr. Rajvir Singh Sodha to District Thatta Successfully Concluded

The official visit of Mr. Rajvir Singh Sodha, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Sindh on Human Rights, to District Thatta was successfully conducted on 17th February, 2026.

The delegation was accompanied by Mr. Agha Fakhur Hussain, Director, Human Rights, Government of Sindh, who also serves as Secretary, Sindh Human Rights Commission, along with the Honourable Judicial Members of the Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC), namely:
• Mr. Ahmed Luqman Memon, Judicial Member, SHRC (Retd. Sessions Judge)
• Mr. Iqbal Hussain Maitlo, Judicial Member, SHRC (Retd. Sessions Judge)
• Mr. Anandram D. Sairani, Judicial Member, SHRC (Retd. Sessions Judge)
• Ms. Tahseen Fatima, Member, SHRC

A formal meeting of the District Human Rights Committee (DHRC) was convened at Darbar Hall, DC Office Thatta. Detailed briefings were presented by relevant line departments regarding the prevailing human rights situation in the district.

Review of Previously Identified Human Rights Issues

The key concerns under review — including access to clean drinking water in coastal areas affected by sea intrusion, healthcare and maternal services, educational infrastructure deficiencies, women and child protection matters, climate-induced livelihood challenges, minority rights, and access to justice — had earlier been identified during a field visit conducted approximately six months prior by the Director, Human Rights.

During the present meeting, the district administration presented progress reports outlining corrective measures undertaken. It was informed that several issues have been resolved or substantially addressed through administrative coordination, while certain matters remain under process due to structural and resource constraints. Directions were issued for expeditious compliance in accordance with applicable legal and policy frameworks.

Plantation Activity

As part of the official programme, a plantation drive was conducted in collaboration with the Forest Department within the premises of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Thatta.

The plantation was formally initiated by Mr. Rajvir Singh Sodha. The members of the Commission, along with the Director, Human Rights, and the Deputy Commissioner Thatta, participated in planting saplings provided by the Forest Department. The activity symbolized the Government’s commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience and formed an integral component of the visit.

Public Engagement and Institutional Coordination

An Open Kacheri (public hearing) was held to receive grievances from citizens relating to human rights matters, and necessary directions were issued to concerned authorities for appropriate redressal.

The delegation also met with the Honourable District & Sessions Judge Thatta and representatives of the District Bar Association to enhance coordination for effective protection of constitutional and legal rights.

Field visits were conducted to the Safe House Thatta and District Model Jail Thatta to review facilities and compliance with human rights standards. Observations and recommendations were recorded for further improvement.

Administrative Coordination

The Office of the Director, Human Rights, acknowledges the effective cooperation and active participation of the Deputy Commissioner Thatta, who remained present during key engagements and facilitated smooth ex*****on of the programme.

The visit was comprehensively managed and coordinated by the Office of the Director, Human Rights, Government of Sindh, ensuring administrative oversight and inter-departmental coordination throughout the visit.

Institutional Follow-Up

A detailed report of the visit, incorporating findings, observations, and recommendations, will be submitted to the Government of Sindh in the coming weeks for further necessary action.

Issued by
Agha Fakhur Hussain
Director Human Rights
Human Rights Department
Government of sindh

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Family-Friendly Workplace Policies Key to Inclusive Growth and Rural Support: Stakeholders

Karachi: Director Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh, Mr. Agha Fakhur Husain, along with MP Mr. Qasim Siraj Soomro; Mr. Prem Bahadur Chand (UNICEF); Ms. Larissa Bruun (UNICEF); Mr. Golden Mulilo (UNFPA); Ms. Nazish Sheikh (CERB–PBC); Ms. Anam Afzal (HBL); and Dr. Mazhar Iqbal (UNICEF), addressed the Advocacy Workshop on Family-Friendly Workplace Policies organized by UNICEF Sindh in collaboration with the Pakistan Business Council.

Mr. Agha Fakhur Husain emphasized that family-friendly workplace policies are essential for economic growth, gender equality, and human capital development. He noted that despite increased awareness, implementation gaps remain and called for stronger enforcement, improved coordination, and enhanced public-private collaboration.

MP Mr. Qasim Siraj Soomro stressed the urgent need to establish childcare facilities in rural Sindh, particularly for women working in agricultural fields. He highlighted that lack of childcare support severely affects rural working mothers and their children, urging priority action in underserved areas.

UNICEF and UNFPA representatives reaffirmed that childcare and supportive workplace policies are nproven investments that enhance productivity, women’s workforce participation, and child development outcomes. Private sector representatives shared that family-friendly measures improve employee retention and organizational performance.

Participants agreed that collaborative efforts are necessary to scale up practical solutions, particularly in rural communities. The Human Rights Department reaffirmed its commitment to advancing family-friendly workplace reforms across Sindh.

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release
Date: 6 February 2026

Successful Meeting on Human Rights and Development Initiatives in Sindh

Karachi — A successful and productive meeting was held today at the Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh, with Mr. Stephen Kent, Country Director, Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) Pakistan, and his delegation.

The meeting was hosted by Mr. Agha Fakhur Hussain, Secretary, Sindh Human Rights Commission, and Director, Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh, who provided a comprehensive briefing on human rights developments in Sindh. He highlighted the mandate, functions, and role of the Human Rights Department and its attached departments, along with key initiatives undertaken to strengthen the protection and promotion of human rights across the province.

Mr. Agha Fakhur Hussain also apprised the participants of various initiatives launched under the dynamic leadership and guidance of Mr. Rajvir Singh Sodha, focusing on institutional strengthening, capacity building, protection of vulnerable groups, and the promotion of human rights at both provincial and district levels.

The meeting was also attended by Madam Advocate Rubina Brohi, Chairperson, Sindh Commission on the Status of Women (SCSW), who briefed participants on the Commission’s mandate, ongoing programmes, and key activities aimed at advancing women’s rights, gender equality, and the protection of women across Sindh Province.

Mr. Abdul Wahid Sangrasi, representing the Civil Society Support Programme (CSSP), was part of the visiting delegation and provided a detailed briefing on activities implemented in Sindh with the support of Norwegian Church Aid programme interventions, particularly in the areas of humanitarian response, community resilience, climate adaptation, and social justice.

Both sides agreed to work collaboratively on training and capacity-building programmes for human rights defenders, as well as to strengthen the implementation of human rights functions at the district level, especially in districts where Norwegian Church Aid–supported activities are currently underway.

The visiting delegation highly appreciated the overall initiatives and performance of the Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh, and acknowledged its proactive and effective role in advancing human rights across the province.

The meeting concluded on a positive and culturally significant note, with the presentation of traditional Ajrak souvenirs to the distinguished guests. A commemorative shield was also presented to Mr. Stephen Kent in recognition of Norwegian Church Aid’s continued contributions toward promoting human rights, social cohesion, and inclusive development in Sindh. And a shared commitment to continued coordination an@d collaboration in pursuit of inclusive, rights-based, and sustainable development in Sindh.

Issued by:
Directorate of
Human Rights Department@
Government of Sindh

PRESS RELEASE

Advisor to Chief Minister on Human Rights Visits IBTIDA Safe House for Women in Karachi

Karachi: Special Assistant to the Chief Minister on Human Rights Mr. Rajvir Singh Sodha visited the women’s safe house “IBTIDA” in Karachi, along with the Director, Human Rights Department Agha Fakhur Hussain and a delegation from the Human Right Department.

The visit was also attended by Ms. Rubina Brohi, Chairperson, Sindh Commission on the Status of Women. During the visit, Ms. Humaira Memon, Chairperson, AL Dua Relief Welfare Foundation, gave a detailed briefing on the project, its objectives, and the range of services being provided to women in distress. Mr. Imran Shaikh, Executive Director, AL Dua Relief Welfare Foundation, was also present on the occasion.

IBTIDA (meaning “Beginning”) was inaugurated in early June 2025 by Ms. Shaheena Sher Ali, Minister for Women Development, Government of Sindh. The safe house has been established as a joint initiative of the Women Development Department and AL Dua Relief Welfare Foundation to provide safe custody, protection, rehabilitation, legal assistance, and vocational support to victimized women, particularly from areas including Korangi and Malir.

During the briefing, the organizers highlighted the working mechanisms, facilities, and operational challenges of the safe house and requested support for the resolution of key issues. Mr. Rajvir Singh Sodha appreciated the role of the Women Development Department in establishing safe houses across Sindh and acknowledged the importance of such initiatives in safeguarding women in distress. He assured the organizers that the issues raised would be taken up with the concerned authorities at the appropriate level for resolution.

The delegation also reviewed the facilities and expressed satisfaction over the management and care standards at IBTIDA, terming it a positive model that aligns with the Sindh government’s vision of expanding safe spaces for vulnerable women across the province.

The Directorate of Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh, had the distinct honour of presenting a commemorative shield to Respected Mr. Asif Hyder Shah, Chief Secretary of Sindh, as a mark of profound appreciation for his exemplary services to the province.

The shield was presented by Agha Fakhur Hussain Director, Human Rights Department, as a token of appreciation for Respected Mr. Asif Hyder Shah’s unwavering commitment to public welfare, good governance, and the promotion and protection of human rights. His esteemed leadership is distinguished by the exemplary leadership reflects strong institutional integrity, strategic vision, and a proactive approach towards advancing human rights principles across Sindh.

Two-Day Training on Business & Human Rights Held in Karachi

Karachi: 22-12-25 . A two-day regional training workshop on the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAP-BHR) and Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work (FPRW) was held in Karachi, jointly organized by the Ministry of Human Rights in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), Employers’ Federation of Pakistan (EFP) and UNDP.

The workshop brought together federal and provincial officials, representatives of employers’ and workers’ organizations, and civil society to strengthen implementation of labour and human rights standards in Pakistan.

Agha Fakhur Hussain, Secretary Sindh Human Rights Commission and Director Sindh Human Rights Department, highlighted Sindh’s efforts in addressing labour challenges through dialogue, enforcement of child and bonded labour laws, and capacity-building initiatives. He emphasized the importance of effective coordination, monitoring, and compliance with international labour standards.

Participants were briefed on business responsibilities under human rights due diligence, provincial institutional mechanisms, and ILO reporting requirements, including CEACR reporting.

The workshop concluded with a commitment to strengthen collaboration among stakeholders to advance business and human rights protections across Sindh and Pakistan.

Sindh Human Rights Commission
Press Note / Official Statement

Subject: Stakeholder Orientation Workshop on the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2013 and Its Implementation Roadmap

The Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC) acknowledges and appreciates the successful convening of the Stakeholder Orientation Workshop on the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2013 and its Implementation Roadmap, held on 18 December 2025 in Karachi, organized by Pathfinder International in collaboration with the Women Development Department, Government of Sindh, with support from UNFPA under the AWAAZ II Programme funded by FCDO.

Mr. Agha Fakhar Hussain, Secretary, Sindh Human Rights Commission, attended the workshop. The Commission expresses its sincere appreciation to the organizers for initiating a timely and much-needed consultative process aimed at strengthening the implementation framework of the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2013 and the Rules, 2016.

The workshop provided an effective platform for key stakeholders to enhance their understanding of the existing legal framework, identify implementation gaps, and deliberate on necessary legal and procedural amendments required for expeditious and effective enforcement of the law. The discussions emphasized the need for improved institutional coordination, clarity in implementation mechanisms, and strengthening of protection and redress systems for survivors of domestic violence.

The proposed implementation roadmap and recommended amendments, as discussed during the workshop, were formally endorsed by the Secretary, Sindh Human Rights Commission, and the Commission has recommended that the proposed measures be taken forward for further legal and administrative processing, in accordance with applicable procedures, to facilitate timely amendments and effective ex*****on of the law.

The Sindh Human Rights Commission considers this initiative a significant step towards advancing the constitutional and legal mandate to protect the rights and dignity of women and survivors of domestic violence in Sindh. The Commission reaffirms its commitment to supporting legislative reform, policy development, and coordinated implementation efforts in collaboration with relevant government departments, civil society organizations, and development partners.

The Commission congratulates Pathfinder International and its partners on the successful organization of this workshop and looks forward to continued engagement to ensure that the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2013 is implemented in both letter and spirit.

PRESS RELEASE

Sindh Human Rights Commission Reaffirms Commitment to Prevent Child Marriage and Strengthen Marriage Registration

Karachi, 18 December 2025 — The Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC) today reaffirmed its commitment to preventing child marriage and strengthening marriage registration systems in Sindh at a showcase event held at Avari Hotel, Karachi, in collaboration with the Legal Aid Society and UNFPA.

Addressing the participants, Agha Fakhur Hussain, Secretary, Sindh Human Rights Commission, stated that child marriage remains one of the most serious human rights challenges in the province and continues to disproportionately affect girls by denying them their fundamental rights to education, health, protection, and informed consent.

The Secretary emphasized that, despite the Sindh Child Marriage Restraint Act, 2013, gaps in implementation, weak birth and marriage registration mechanisms, and entrenched social norms continue to enable early and forced marriages. The Commission stressed that effective birth and marriage registration serves as a critical preventive tool and enables the State to protect children from exploitation and abuse.

Highlighting the public health dimensions of child marriage, the Secretary noted that early marriage causes long-term and irreversible harm to maternal health, child wellbeing, and mental health. The Secretary called for coordinated and sustained action by health authorities, local government institutions, law enforcement agencies, and civil society organizations.

Reaffirming its statutory mandate, the Sindh Human Rights Commission committed to actively monitor human rights violations, promote institutional accountability, and advocate for rights-based reforms through close collaboration with government departments and civil society partners.

The Commission concluded by urging stakeholders to translate dialogue into practical, coordinated, and time-bound actions to ensure that every child in Sindh receives effective protection from early and forced marriage.

PRESS RELEASE

Sindh Strengthens GBV Response Framework; Consensus Reached on Finalization of SOPs

Karachi, 17 December 2025 – PC Hotel, Karachi:
A One-Day Orientation on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Guidelines for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Helplines and Service Providers, organized by Pathfinder International, was held in Karachi with participation from key provincial departments, commissions, and stakeholders.

Mr. Agha Fakhur Hussain, Secretary, Sindh Human Rights Commission, attended the orientation along with representatives from the Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh.

In her welcome remarks, Ms. Rubina Brohi, Chairperson, Sindh Commission on the Status of Women, appreciated the role of Pathfinder International in developing the SOPs and facilitating a consultative and inclusive process. She expressed her satisfaction with the progress made and stated her expectation that the workshop would lead to the finalization of the SOPs, which would then be formally placed before the Women Development Department, Government of Sindh, for further necessary action and consideration.

The programme was chaired by Mrs. Shaheena Sher Ali, Minister for Women Development Department, Government of Sindh, who emphasized the need for early finalization and effective implementation of the SOPs to strengthen GBV response mechanisms across Sindh. She also stressed the importance of establishing a single toll-free complaint number to function as a unified complaint and referral mechanism for the Human Rights Department, Women Development Department, and the Sindh Commission on the Status of Women, ensuring improved access and coordination for survivors.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Agha Fakhur Hussain, Secretary, Human Rights Commission Sindh, stated that the Human Rights Department and Development Department are working on the same page to promote women’s rights and human development. He said that the Human Rights Commission fully endorses the SOPs developed under the human development framework and recommended their translation into Urdu and Sindhi to enhance accessibility and community engagement.

Mr. Agha Fakhur Hussain further proposed initiating awareness and sensitization programmes in educational institutions, particularly at the university level, as part of the ongoing human rights awareness campaigns of the Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh.

The participants reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration to ensure a coordinated, survivor-centered, and rights-based approach to addressing Gender-Based Violence in Sindh.

⸻

Issued by:
Agha Fakhur Hussain
Secretary
Sindh Human Rights Commission,
&
Director
Human Rights Department Government of Sindh

Press Release

Directorate of Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh
12 December 2025 – Karachi

The Directorate of Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh, participated in the Provincial Consultation on Gender-Inclusive Climate Resilience, Protection & Institutional Coordination organized by the Civil Society Support Program (CSSP) at PC Hotel Karachi.

Agha Fakhur Hussain Durrani, Director, Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh, represented the department and actively participated in the consultation.

The event brought together key stakeholders including Mr. Noor Bajeer (CEO CSSP), Ms. Aalia Yousuf (NCA Pakistan), Ms. Sheerin Narejo (Chairperson CMIT), Mr. Sabir Hussain Shah (SSWMB), Mr. Jan Mohammad (MET Department), Ms. Waheeda Mahesar (ZABTech), Mr. Wahid Sangrasi (CSSP) and Mr. Iqbal Detho (Former Chairman SHRC) along with members of civil society and government departments.

In his remarks, Director Agha Fakhur Hussain Durrani highlighted the human rights dimensions of climate change, emphasizing increased protection risks, GBV trends, and service disruptions observed during past disasters, particularly the 2022 floods. He appreciated the initiatives of the Government of Sindh, PDMA, and P&D Department in strengthening climate resilience, early warning systems, and gender-responsive protection mechanisms.

He stressed that effective climate response requires coordinated efforts, gender-inclusive planning, stronger district-level protection committees, and accessible support services for vulnerable populations.

The Human Rights Department reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with government institutions, civil society, and development partners to promote a rights-based and gender-inclusive climate resilience framework in Sindh.