District administration lauds NGO role in legal advisory, central mechanism

Hyderabad: In a remarkable collaboration with the Honorable Commissioner Hyderabad, the Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC), and the Civil Society Support Program (CSSP), a coordination meeting of stakeholders was convened at the Darbar Hall, Shahbaz Building in Hyderabad.

This momentous event aimed to deliberate upon critical issues concerning peace and justice, the violation of basic rights, the rights of vulnerable communities, especially minorities, and the protection of these rights through the unified efforts and coordination of all stakeholders. This monumental initiative also seeks to fortify and enhance the functioning of District-level vigilance committees, peace committees, and fact-finding committees.

The primary objective of this momentous gathering is to facilitate prompt and immediate assistance on issues related to peace and rights, address cases of rights violations, ensure survivors' access to social and legal aid, and promote the active involvement of all peace, rights protection, and vigilance committees at the district and divisional levels. This initiative stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the SHRC to seek consensus solutions to these pressing issues.

Distinguished guests from various line departments, including the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner Hyderabad, DIGP Hyderabad Range, Women Development Department, Child Protection Department, Women Protection Cell, Women Complaint Cell, District Government, Hyderabad Chamber of Commerce, the Judiciary, Civil Society, and Media, wholeheartedly participated in this pivotal meeting.

Noor Mohammad Bajeer, CEO of CSSP, emphasized the meeting's objectives, highlighting the crucial need for active participation of district-level stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of peace and justice. CSSP, in collaboration with key stakeholders, has taken significant steps to form peace committees, involving faith actors, civil society, and community leaders to support vulnerable groups in the region.

Chairperson SHRC Iqbal Ahmed Detho cited inspiring examples of decisions promoting interfaith harmony, underlining the Constitution's unwavering commitment to the cause of peace. He called for robust stakeholder coordination, the sharing of crucial data, and the development of a comprehensive booklet to raise awareness about the committees.

Wahid Sangrasi, Head of Programs at CSSP, lauded the efforts of the Sindh Police in forming Minority Facilitation Desks and pledged to develop a referral directory to assist underprivileged communities effectively.

D.I.G Hyderabad Tarique Dharejo acknowledged the challenges in implementing laws, with a particular focus on Minority Facilitation Desks. He underscored the need for education and sensitization about the pivotal role played by district-level committees in the pursuit of peace and justice.

Commissioner Hyderabad Syed Khalid Hyder Shah stressed the urgent need for enhanced coordination among departments and committees to enforce laws effectively and strengthen referral and protection mechanisms. He proposed the establishment of a unified committee representing relevant departments and suggested using district legal advisory committees as a forum for productive collaboration.

Deputy Commissioner Hyderabad Tariq Ahmed Qureshi commended the efforts of the Legal Aid Society, a prominent not-for-profit organization, in providing Legal Advisory and Central Mechanism. He underscored the significance of the introduction of the Sindh Legal Advisory Call Centre (SLACC).

The LAS representative at the event, Zahid Ali Messo, presented a detailed talk on the formation of District Peace Committees, further highlighting the organization's dedication to these critical matters.

Showing great interest in the work of LAS, Commissioner Hyderabad sought additional information and insights from the organization.

The Incharge of the Women Protection Cell Marvi Awan, Quratulain Shah, Incharge of the Women Complaint Cell,  Amreen Mastoi, Incharge of Child Protection, Reshma Thebo from the Women Development Department, and members of peace committees all shared their invaluable perspectives during the meeting. They contributed to the identification of gaps, the sharing of crucial data, the proper implementation of laws, and the strengthening of all committees involved in this noble cause.

This collaborative effort marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of peace and justice in Hyderabad, reaffirming the commitment of all stakeholders to uphold and protect the rights of vulnerable communities, minorities, and all those in need. The event's discussions and commitments made will undoubtedly pave the way for a more harmonious and just society in the region.