By Muhammad Zeb
Upper Dir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan — In a significant development for women’s rights, local authorities in Upper Dir have registered a criminal case under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Elimination of Custom of Ghag Act 2013 following allegations of forced marriage and prolonged harassment.
The complainant, Ms. Shabnam Begum, reported that she had been subjected to years of coercion by the accused, who allegedly invoked the illegal practice of “Ghag” to claim her for marriage against her will. The situation reportedly escalated into threats and intimidation affecting her and her family.
After a written complaint was submitted on March 31, 2026, District Police Officer Aslam Nawaz directed immediate legal action. Consequently, a First Information Report (FIR) was registered on April 6, 2026, at 03:40 PM under Section 4 of the relevant law.
The swift response by the police, including the Deputy Public Prosecutor (DPP), Station House Officer (SHO), and investigation team, has been acknowledged as a positive step toward enforcing legal protections for women.
However, concerns remain regarding the safety of the complainant. Civil society voices emphasize the urgent need for:
Immediate arrest of the accused
Provision of security to the victim and her family
Transparent and timely investigation
