Anti-Rape Crisis Cell set up at Swat hospital

MINGORA: Saidu Teaching Hospital Swat has inaugurated an Anti-Rape Crisis Cell (ARCC), established with technical assistance from UN Women and funding from the Essential Services for Women and Girls Subject to Violence Programme.

The ARCC in Swat is part of a national initiative to strengthen institutional responses to sexual violence. Functioning as a 24/7 one-stop facility, it offers a full range of coordinated services including medical treatment, psychological counseling, legal aid, and crisis intervention, ensuring timely and dignified care for survivors of rape and sexual assault.

This marks the latest addition to Pakistan’s growing network of ARCCs, following the launch of the country’s first ARCC in August 2023 at the Karachi Police Surgeon’s Office. Subsequent centres have since been established at Nishtar Hospital (Multan), Polyclinic Hospital (Islamabad), Services Hospital (Lahore), and Mian Munshi DHQ Teaching Hospital Lahore.

The inauguration ceremony opened with remarks from the Chief Executive Officer, Saidu Teaching Hospital Swat, whose words reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating sexual violence and delivering integrated, survivor-focused services.

Sher Khan, Rule of Law Expert UN Women, highlighting the crucial role of Anti-Rape Crisis Cells as fundamental hubs for comprehensive services for rape survivors. He said: “Anti-Rape Crisis Cells are cornerstones in our fight against sexual violence—they represent safety, justice, and healing. By offering survivors immediate, integrated, and compassionate support in a secure environment, these centers help restore dignity, rebuild lives, and reaffirm that no survivor stands alone.”

Addressing the gathering, the District and Sessions Judge, Swat, Asad Hameed Khan described the new facility as a critical step forward and said: “As we inaugurate Swat’s Anti-Rape Crisis Cell, we reach an important milestone in our relentless pursuit of justice and safety. This facility highlights the government’s dedication and collaboration.”

The ARCC initiative reinforces the shared commitment of the Government of Pakistan, UN Women, and health and justice sector stakeholders to uphold survivors’ rights and improve coordinated responses to gender-based violence.