Rape survivors support facility opens at Polyclinic

ISLAMABAD: Anti-Rape Crisis Cell (ARCC) has been opened at the Federal Government Polyclinic Hospital with technical support from UN Women and funding from the U.S. Embassy’s Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) as part of the 
Tahaffuz project to combat sexual violence and support survivors in their journey towards justice and healing.
This new facility will function as a comprehensive resource center, offering a range of services including medical and psychological support, legal aid, and counseling. It will operate 24/7 with strict security measures in place.
At the inauguration ceremony, Department of Gynecology head Dr. Naushin Farooq in her speech reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating sexual violence and providing comprehensive support to survivors.
Saman Ahsan, UN Women OIC, addressing the gathering, said ARCCs are vital centers providing consolidated survivor services. “Anti-Rape Crisis Cells are crucial in our collective efforts to tackle sexual violence and ensure the rights and well-being of survivors. By offering comprehensive services, these cells are instrumental in empowering survivors to reclaim their lives and pursue justice,” she said.
The launch of the ARCC in Islamabad marks a significant step forward in providing justice and support for survivors of sexual assault. 
Carrie Basnight, Deputy Director for INL, praised the initiative, highlighting the U.S. government’s commitment to fighting sexual violence and advocating for survivors' rights. “I commend the federal government and UN Women for establishing the Anti-Rape Crisis Cell,” she said.
Dr. Sophia Younas, Deputy Director of Health at the Ministry of National Health Services Regulations and Coordination, reaffirmed the Pakistani government’s commitment to eliminating sexual violence and providing extensive support to survivors.
Ayesha Raza Farooq, Chairperson of the Special Committee on Anti-Rape (Investigation & Trial) Act, 2021, said the ARCC in Islamabad is milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance safety and justice in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT). 
“The inauguration of Islamabad’s ARCC signifies a major step in our relentless pursuit of justice and safety for all citizens,” she concluded.