The patriarchal structure of our society has always created a stifling environment for women. Whether it be in undeveloped or developed countries, women are predominantly the victims of unnecessary sufferings such as harassment, abuse, inequality, and what not! Women’s fundamental rights have been there for years but no one has implemented them in letter and in spirit. We need to fulfill their due rights as it not only gives them freedom and opportunities, but a chance to live.

This conservative tradition of male dominance in a household or society is where it all starts. In a household, women are treated as possessions, confined only to chores, and are sometimes abused as well. Whereas men are more privileged and taught to be more powerful. Women ,who do have the audacity to pursue their dreams, are harassed by men in workplaces. Inequality has been inevitably significant in all countries. It includes women getting lower salaries than men, not getting the protection they deserve, being considered inferior to men, and not receiving the education to which they have the right. Why can’t we give women the protection and fruit for their hard work? Knowing the fact that giving them jobs will only contribute to our country’s economy and benefit us?

Currently, in Pakistan, the growing cases of harassment in educational institutions has left everyone in shock and wonder. It has compelled us to question ourselves that if our girls are in safe hands? Are they comfortable with their teachers? Is this the future that we wanted for them? The excessive freedom that we have given to our men allows them to undermine women’s freedom.

In a nutshell, we need to make ourselves realize that these appalling acts can affect our women physically, emotionally, and psychologically for a lifetime. It is a must that we start questioning ourselves about what kind of future we want for our women and country. It is time that we fight back against evil oppression and start empowering our women.

There is a well known African proverb: “If you educate a man, you educate an individual. But if you educate a woman, you educate a nation.”