The Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO) has released its latest Factsheet on Violence Against Children (VAC) in Islamabad, covering the period from January to June 2025. The data, obtained through the Right to Information (RTI) Act from the Islamabad Police, paints a deeply concerning picture of child safety and justice in the federal capital.
According to the report, a total of 276 cases of violence against children were registered during the six-month period. The majority — 167 cases — involved child kidnapping, followed by 81 cases of child sexual abuse and exploitation. Despite the gravity of these crimes, only seven cases resulted in convictions, reflecting a conviction rate of just 2.5 percent across all categories.
The factsheet further reveals that 148 cases reached the challan (charge-sheet) stage, while 139 cases proceeded to trial. However, a staggering 97 cases were withdrawn before reaching any conclusion.
Expressing grave concern over the findings, Syed Kausar Abbas, Executive Director of SSDO, stated:“It is extremely alarming that hundreds of cases involving child kidnapping and abuse have been reported, yet only a few have led to convictions. This reflects deep-rooted weaknesses within our justice system — from investigation and evidence collection to prosecution and victim support. The system’s inability to protect and deliver justice to children is unacceptable and demands urgent reform.”
Mr. Abbas added that the findings point to a systemic failure that not only denies justice to victims and their families but also erodes public confidence in law enforcement and the judiciary. He urged authorities to strengthen investigation procedures, expedite trials, and ensure effective survivor protection mechanisms to prevent case withdrawals and guarantee fair outcomes.
The report also highlights that no cases of child labour or child beggary were recorded during this period — a finding that likely indicates underreporting or classification gaps rather than the absence of such issues. SSDO called upon law enforcement agencies to improve data accuracy and transparency to better inform public policy and child protection interventions.
SSDO emphasized the urgent need for coordinated action between police, prosecution, and judicial institutions, along with capacity building of investigators and prosecutors to handle child-related cases with sensitivity and efficiency. The organization reiterated its commitment to evidence-based advocacy, research, and policy reforms aimed at protecting Pakistan’s children from all forms of violence and exploitation.
Concluding his remarks, Syed Kausar Abbas stated:
“The protection of children must be treated as a national priority. Every unreported, withdrawn, or unresolved case represents a child failed by the system. We must act now to build institutions that uphold justice and safeguard our future generations.”
Issued by:
Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO)
Website: www.ssdo.org.pk
