PESHAWAR: Awami National Party (ANP) leader Shagufta Malik has called for women to be granted full participation in politics and lawmaking, emphasizing that their role should extend beyond merely filling assembly quotas.
Speaking to Pakhtun Digital, Malik criticized the persistent misconception that women are “decoration pieces,” stating that such attitudes hinder social development.
Malik expressed disappointment that no substantial progress has been made on women’s rights during the third term of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
She stressed that women must be empowered to actively engage in politics and legislative processes to contribute meaningfully to societal advancement.
Highlighting the critical role of women in society, Malik dismissed the notion that women are “work thieves,” attributing societal backwardness to the marginalization of women.
She argued that integrating women fully into social, political, and economic spheres would lead to comprehensive development.
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Malik also emphasized that women’s political participation is not merely a fight for rights but a national necessity.
She urged the government to take immediate steps to safeguard women’s rights and enhance their political and economic standing.
Her remarks have sparked discussions among political parties, drawing attention to the need for greater awareness and action on women’s rights in Pakistan.
