UNVEILING REGIONAL DISPARITIES AS THE TRUE OBSTACLE FOR WOMEN'S ACCESS TO JUSTICE

Abstract

This study explores the deep-rooted cultural, legal, and institutional barriers that hinder women’s access to justice in Pakistan despite an expanding framework of gender-protective legislation. Drawing upon constitutional provisions, statutory laws, and field data from reports by organizations such as the Aurat Foundation, SDPI, and Awaz CDS, the paper analyses how patriarchal traditions and regional disparities perpetuate discrimination in marriage, inheritance, and family law. Practices such as Vani, Swara, Watta-Satta, and symbolic marriage to the Quran persist across provinces, particularly in Sindh and Baluchistan, despite prohibitive laws. Although reforms including the Punjab Family Amendment Act (2015), anti-dowry legislation, and workplace-harassment laws mark progress, their implementation remains weak due to illiteracy, societal pressure, and limited institutional responsiveness. Quantitative evidence shows a continuing prevalence of customary marriages and women’s exclusion from property inheritance. The review  highlights the gap between legal rights and lived realities, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness at the grassroots level, harmonization of provincial laws, and stronger enforcement mechanisms to ensure equitable access to justice and protection of women’s fundamental rights.