Abstract

This research paper investigates the strategies to enhance women's empowerment and address gender inequality in rural Sindh, with a focus on Pano Aqil. Through a combination of quantitative surveys and qualitative data analysis, the study explores the current level of awareness regarding women's rights and empowerment, the impact of traditional practices such as Jirgas and Panchayats, and the opportunities and barriers to education and employment for women. Additionally, it evaluates the perceived effectiveness of legal reforms and assesses awareness of harmful practices like 'Karo-Kari.' The study reveals significant gaps in awareness, persistent gender biases, and the ongoing influence of traditional practices on women's rights. By addressing these issues, the research aims to provide actionable insights and recommendations for policymakers, community leaders, and organizations to improve women's empowerment and reduce gender inequality in rural Sindh.

Key Words

Women's Empowerment in Sindh, Gender Inequality, Rural Sindh, Pano Aqil, Traditional Practices, Education Barriers, Employment Opportunities, Legal Reforms, Karo-Kari 

Introduction

On a global scale, Pakistan's position concerning gender equality is among the lowest, ranking 142 out of 149 nations. This ranking serves as a stark illustration of the disparities existing between men and women across various facets of life within the country. One key aspect of this gender disparity is particularly evident in the domain of economic participation and opportunities, where Pakistan holds the 146th position. This underscores the significant challenges that women encounter in their pursuit of employment, career progression, and active engagement in the nation's economy (Ahmed, 2023).

These challenges are multifaceted, stemming from a complex interplay of cultural, social, and economic factors that act as barriers to women's full integration into the workforce. Additionally, the representation of women in Pakistan's political landscape is distinctly limited, with a ranking of 97th in terms of their involvement in legislative roles. This implies a notable underrepresentation of women in the political sphere, which can significantly impact the formulation of policies and decisions related to gender equality (Rahman & Thompson, 2022).

In the rural areas of Pakistan, especially in Sindh, an array of obstacles becomes apparent, affecting women's financial literacy and their capacity to participate effectively in the economy. These obstacles encompass a lack of financial knowledge, constrained access to formal financial institutions such as banks, cultural constraints that restrict financial autonomy, limited financial resources and awareness, and insufficient access to loans.

A concerning statistic reveals that only 23% of women in rural Sindh are literate. The remaining 77% of females in rural Sindh are denied basic education opportunities due to their adherence to a strict traditional culture, financial constraints, a lack of access to educational resources, and living conditions that limit their ability to pursue education. In rural Sindh, a deeply ingrained patriarchal culture has historically governed tribal communities. As a result, women within this culture have faced significant challenges that have deprived them of fundamental rights, including access to education and gender equality, and have made them vulnerable to early marriages, a harmful practice deeply entrenched in this society (Global Giving, n.d).




Aim of the Study

This study aims to raise awareness about women's empowerment in rural Sindh, specifically Pano Aqil, Pakistan, with a focus on promoting gender equality and increasing female access to education. This will be accomplished through literacy programs and awareness campaigns. The study also aims to provide resources and support to empower women, emphasizing that female education is a fundamental right. It advocates for legal measures to penalize those who obstruct girls' access to education, reinforcing its importance in law and society.




Research Questions

The major research question of this study is to identify effective strategies for enhancing women's empowerment and addressing gender inequality in rural Sindh, drawing on insights gained from Pano Aqil.




Supplementary Questions

1. What is the current level of awareness among residents of Pano Aqil, Sindh, regarding women's rights and empowerment?

2. How do traditional practices like Jirgas and Panchayats impact women's rights and safety in Pano Aqil?

3. How effective are legal reforms in enhancing women's rights and empowerment in rural Sindh?

4. What is the level of awareness about harmful practices such as 'Karo-Kari,' and how does this awareness affect efforts to combat such practices in Pano Aqil?




Significance of Research

The research on "Women Empowerment in Rural Sindh: A Case Study of Pano Aqil, Pakistan" is significant for several reasons. It directly tackles the critical issue of gender disparities in Pakistan, with a particular focus on rural areas where these disparities are most pronounced. By concentrating on women's empowerment, this study aims to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.

The focus on rural areas is especially relevant, as these regions face unique challenges related to women's empowerment, including limited access to education, economic opportunities, and healthcare. Pano Aqil serves as a representative case, making this research pivotal in understanding and addressing the specific issues that rural women face.

Additionally, the study highlights the severe lack of educational opportunities for women, a key barrier to their empowerment. By exploring the effects of this deficiency and proposing strategies to improve access to education, the research addresses a critical area for societal advancement.

The findings also hold potential policy implications. By identifying gaps in current policies and providing evidence-based recommendations, this research can help shape more effective policies that support women's empowerment and gender equality.

Lastly, this research adds valuable insights to the academic literature on women's empowerment and gender studies, particularly in the context of rural Pakistan. It serves as a reference for future scholars and researchers, making a meaningful contribution to the field. In summary, this study is crucial for addressing gender disparities, enhancing women's empowerment in rural areas, influencing policy improvements, and enriching academic knowledge.

Research Methodology

This section details the precise research data collection methods, which include the research method being employed in the current study.  It also explains how the research data was collected using primary sources for collecting primary data and secondary sources for collecting secondary research data.




Sources of Primary Data

The primary data collected for this research study is quantitative. The research relies on the responses of 43 respondents who participated in surveys in the Pano Aqil area in Sindh. These surveys aimed to understand the issues faced by the local population and gather their opinions on the steps the government should take based on the research findings. The research focuses on women's empowerment and explores how rural Pakistan can be improved.




Sources of Secondary Data

The secondary data utilized in this research predominantly falls within the category of qualitative data. This secondary data has been sourced from a variety of reputable platforms and publications, including websites, Google Scholar, Scopus, JSTOR, library resources, magazine articles, as well as the works of different scholars and authors. Among this wealth of secondary data, a subset of five scholars have examined past instances of women's experiences in Sindh, Pakistan. The remaining scholars have focused on exploring the historical context of the issues, the challenges faced, and potential solutions. This amalgamation of secondary data serves as a valuable supplement to the primary research, enriching the overall understanding of the subject matter and its historical context.

Literature Review

This section reviews existing literature to provide context and insights into the challenges encountered during the research in rural Sindh, Pakistan. It delves into the hidden nature of crime cases and the reluctance of individuals to advocate for their basic rights, with a specific focus on girls' education and healthcare. This literature review sets the stage for understanding the complexities and significance of addressing these issues in the subsequent sections.




Influential Factors Affecting Gender Equality and Family Dynamics

In the tranquil village of Muhammad Salah Indhar in Pano Aqil, a horrific tragedy unfolded, reflecting the deep-seated issues in rural Sindh. Eleven members of a single family, including two pregnant women and eight children, were brutally murdered by having their throats slit with a dagger found in their home. The head of the family, Wahabullah Indhar, who reportedly suffered from mental illness, was arrested along with his four sons—Kaleem, Habibullah, Dur Muhammad, and Hizbullah—after they shockingly confessed to the crime during initial interrogations. Wahabullah claimed that he was commanded by 'Allah' to carry out the murders, fearing divine retribution if he disobeyed.

The victims included Wahabullah's wife, Rukaiya, his daughters Iqra (18), Isra (8), Suraiya (6), and Hajani (5), his daughter-in-law Naseema (19), and his sons Mehmood Asad (4), Mehmoodul Hassan (3), Muhammad Shayan (1), as well as his grandchildren Nazia (3) and Ali Sher (1). Both Rukaiya and Naseema were pregnant at the time of the murders. After the post-mortem, the bodies were returned to the grieving family (Sheikh, 2020).

This tragedy underscores the devastating impact such incidents have on communities in rural Sindh, where traditional values and societal norms often influence gender equality and family dynamics. Similar cases continue to plague the region, leaving many without justice, particularly women, who are frequently subjected to heinous crimes under the guise of 'honor.'




Honor Killing as a Root Cause of Gender Inequality

As per a study conducted by Wa, Pahor; Ah, Guramani; and D, Khan Pahore in 2016, this comprehensive exploration unfolds within the serene backdrop of Shikarpur district in Sindh, Pakistan. It delves into a distressing narrative—a narrative that reflects the root causes and dire consequences of gender inequality, specifically concerning the tragic practice of honor killings. The primary focus is on understanding the profound impacts of gender inequality on honor-based violence.

A critical facet of this investigation is a comprehensive survey, integral to the research, revealing a disheartening statistic: an annual average of 10 to 12 women tragically fall victim to honor killings in the district, amounting to a staggering total of 45 women facing this dire fate within a mere five-year period (WA et al., 2016). The districts most significantly affected by this distressing practice encompass Lakhi town, Garhi Yasin town, Khanpur town, and Shikarpur town, where the incidence of honor killings is disturbingly high.

These research findings serve as a compelling call to action, emphasizing the urgent need for resolute measures to safeguard the dignity and lives of women in this study area. The collective and concerted efforts of the government, civil society, media, and non-governmental organizations, as underscored by Wa, Pahor; Guramani Ah; and Khan Pahore D, are deemed indispensable in addressing the troubling escalation of honor killings against women. This grim reality necessitates unwavering determination to protect the lives and rights of women in Shikarpur district, while simultaneously contributing to the broader pursuit of gender equality in the region.




Education as a Key Milestone in the Journey of Women's Empowerment

Education stands as a key milestone in the journey of women's empowerment, equipping them with the ability to think constructively and become architects of their destinies. The scope of women's education transcends mere economic advancement; it encompasses leading a life of dignity, free from violence and discrimination, marked by self-reliance and robust self-esteem.

Nirala's study highlights the crucial role of women's education in societal development. Educated women are better equipped to overcome challenges, improve their lives, and positively impact their children’s development. Investing in women's education enables them to excel in various fields and drive societal progress. The benefits of women's education extend to both social and economic advancements, as communities leverage the knowledge and skills of educated women (Nirala, 2020). This view is supported by earlier research, such as that by Pahor Wa, Guramani Ah, and Khan Pahore D, which examines the severe consequences of gender inequality, including honor killings in Shikarpur district, Sindh, Pakistan.

Together, this body of research highlights the essential role of women's education in addressing gender-based violence and advancing gender equality. It stresses the need for societies to empower women through education, which not only advances their progress but also benefits broader societal development. Shailaja's 2019 study underscores that women's empowerment has become a global issue, gaining significant attention through both formal and informal campaigns. The 1985 International Women's Conference in Nairobi marked a pivotal moment in recognizing the importance of women's empowerment across various aspects of life (K Shailaja, 2019). The impact of this conference continues to resonate, reflecting ongoing global efforts to address gender disparities and foster a more equitable world.

Fundamentally, as emphasized by the study of Shailaja, S. K., the paper of Tunio also that education not only helps women overcome societal barriers but also grants them autonomy and the ability to drive significant societal change. This perspective underscores the importance of women's education in societal development and empowerment. To address the challenges faced by women in rural Pakistan, a comprehensive government approach is needed to improve education, health, and safety—key aspects of upholding their rights (Tunio, 2022). The complex issues affecting women in rural areas are closely linked to the broader crisis in rural education.




Impediments Affecting Girls' Education in Sindh

The literature review explores the impediments affecting girls' education in Sindh, Pakistan, considering the country's low education ranking and a female literacy rate of just 43%. Several cultural and societal norms contribute significantly to these challenges.

Traditional gender roles in Sindh significantly impact girls' education. Cultural norms prioritize domestic responsibilities for girls over pursuing education. Limited mobility due to these norms further restricts girls' access to schools beyond their immediate vicinity. Early marriages, which are culturally endorsed, often lead to the discontinuation of girls' education as married girls are expected to focus on household duties. Gender bias exacerbates the issue, as cultural norms undervalue girls' education compared to boys'. This bias results in less support and fewer resources for girls' education. Additionally, the lack of female role models, influenced by these cultural norms, makes it difficult for girls to envision themselves in educational and professional roles, creating a substantial barrier to their aspirations (Ali & Cheema, 2018).

On the other hand, research done by Junejo provides an in-depth analysis of the link between traditional values and female education in District and Tehsil Sukkur, Sindh, Pakistan. The study reveals that deeply rooted cultural values significantly obstruct female education in the region. Key factors identified include poverty, social security concerns, parental attitudes, environmental pressures, and religious values, which collectively create substantial barriers to female education. An important finding is the prevalence of joint family systems among respondents. The research also notes that the educational background of parents in Sukkur is often inadequate, with many females having limited or no literacy, while males typically achieve only an intermediate level of education. Conducted in 2020, this study is crucial for advancing gender equality and improving educational access in Sukkur, Sindh (Junejo, 2020).




Women’s Healthcare Challenges in Rural Pakistan

Pakistan's healthcare sector faces a significant urban-rural divide, with urban areas benefiting from high-quality healthcare services, while rural communities struggle with limited access. Factors contributing to this divide include geographical distance and a shortage of healthcare facilities in rural areas. Despite efforts to improve the healthcare system, challenges persist, such as lack of health awareness, inadequate nutrition, water pollution, and poor hygiene. These issues contribute to high rates of communicable and non-communicable diseases, with underprivileged populations particularly affected. This has led to high child mortality rates and rising congenital heart defects. Women face increased mortality during childbirth due to the absence of trained medical professionals, often relying on inadequately trained midwives. Compounding this, a significant portion of Pakistan’s population lives below the poverty line, with around 78% of health expenditures paid out-of-pocket, placing a heavy financial burden on the poor (Khadim, 2022).

Addressing these healthcare challenges requires deploying qualified physicians, promoting health awareness, and improving access to medical care in rural areas. Enhancing hygiene standards and ensuring clean drinking water are also crucial. Furthermore, well-established hospitals in rural areas play a key role in women’s empowerment by providing healthcare services and offering education and awareness programs on women’s rights and health. By tackling these challenges and creating supportive environments, rural hospitals can significantly advance women's empowerment in Pakistan.




Women's Rights as Human Rights

As per the analysis done by Muneer, protecting women's rights as human rights requires eradicating gender-based violence and reshaping traditional roles of women. Women, as mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives, deserve dignity and respect. While legislation is crucial for societal change, it alone is insufficient to end violence against women. The government must actively promote gender equality and ensure that the rule of law integrates various justice systems, primarily state law.

Pakistan's pluralistic justice system includes Islamic, traditional, and state laws. Despite the formal legal framework, traditional laws administered through Jirgas, panchayats, and local leaders remain deeply ingrained in societal practices. These traditional mechanisms often persist due to cultural adherence to local norms and values (Muneer, 2017).

The partial implementation of state laws amid enduring cultural practices highlights the need for comprehensive education and uniform socialization to achieve the rule of law. Fully realizing pro-women laws can significantly reduce gender inequality and transform social change aspirations into reality, provided all barriers are addressed.

Data Analysis

Data Analysis

The data analysis primarily relies on quantitative methods, using surveys to gather public perspectives and assess satisfaction. The study emphasizes survey questionnaires as the main tool, with 43 responses addressing six key questions. The surveys in this study are meticulously designed, employing diverse scaling methods to enhance the comprehension of the targeted audience's views and thoughts. These structured surveys have proven effective in yielding successful results and valuable feedback on the discussed topic. Among the various measurement scales available, this research questionnaire specifically adopts the Likert scale.

The Likert scale, a method chosen for its applicability in gathering opinions and perspectives, operates as a rating scale, providing participants with a range of options to choose from. This approach enables the researcher to calculate different points of view and behaviors effectively. In the context of this survey, it is noteworthy that, except for one open-ended question, all other questions are formulated based on the Likert scale, contributing to a comprehensive and structured data collection process.

 




Figure 1

Women's Rights and Empowerment


In Figure 1, the researcher inquired about the level of awareness regarding women's rights and empowerment within the community. The survey garnered a total of 43 responses. Notably, 44.2% of respondents indicated a high level of awareness by selecting the option "very well," represented by the color yellow. Another 44.2% chose the option "somewhat," depicted in orange, suggesting a moderate level of familiarity. A smaller proportion, 11.6%, clicked on "not very well."
 


Figure 2
Deprivation of the Opportunity to Attend School

In Figure 2, the researcher investigated whether respondents or individuals within their network had encountered instances where a girl in the rural community was deprived of the opportunity to attend school based on her gender. The survey elicited 42 responses, with participants choosing between 'yes' and 'no.' The affirmative responses, represented by the color blue, signified situations where such denials had occurred, while the negative responses, depicted in orange, indicated instances where no such gender-based impediments to education were observed.
 


Figure 3
Effects of Traditional Practices on Women

Figure 3, delved into the influence of traditional practices, like Jirgas or Panchayats, on women's rights and safety within the community. The findings, based on 42 responses, revealed a noteworthy impact: 42.9% of participants emphasized a substantial effect ('a lot'), 31% acknowledged a modest influence ('a little'), and 21.4% indicated that these traditional practices had no bearing on women's rights and safety in their community ('not at all'). This diversity of perspectives adds depth to our understanding of the intricate dynamics at play.
 






Figure 4
Opportunities for Women in the Community

Figure 4 explored the opportunities for women in the community to pursue education and secure better employment. From the 42 responses, a resounding 85.7% (represented by the color blue) expressed optimism, affirming that there are indeed opportunities for women in these domains. Conversely, 14.3% of respondents (depicted in orange) indicated a perception that such opportunities are lacking. This divergence in responses highlights the varied perspectives on the prospects for women's education and employment within the community.
 


Figure 5
Impact of Changing Laws on Women's Rights

Figure 5, explored beliefs regarding the impact of changing laws and ensuring their enforcement on enhancing women's rights in the area. From the 42 responses, a substantial 85.7% (depicted in blue) expressed a belief that such changes could indeed empower women. In contrast, 14.3% of participants (represented in orange) indicated skepticism regarding the efficacy of legal reforms in improving women's rights in the community. This dichotomy in responses sheds light on the varied perspectives regarding the potential influence of legal measures on women's empowerment.
 












Figure 6
Karo Kari in Rural Sindh

Figure 6 delved into the critical issue of awareness surrounding the practice known as 'Karo-Kari' in rural Sindh. This practice involves individuals, predominantly women, facing violence or even death in the name of honor. From the 42 responses, a substantial 66.7% (depicted in blue) of participants expressed familiarity with this distressing phenomenon. This acknowledgment suggests a community that is cognizant of the harsh realities faced by some individuals, particularly women, within the context of honor-related violence.
Conversely, 33.3% of respondents (represented in orange) indicated a lack of awareness about 'Karo-Kari.' This finding highlights the presence of a segment within the community that may not be well-informed about or may not have encountered this specific form of violence. The varying degrees of awareness underscores the need for comprehensive community education and awareness campaigns to address and combat such harmful practices, fostering a collective understanding and commitment to change.

Discussion of Results

The survey findings reveal several important insights into the status of women's rights and empowerment in rural Sindh, Pakistan.




Awareness of Women's Rights and Empowerment

The survey found that a high proportion of 

respondents (nearly 88%) were aware of women's rights and empowerment. This is a positive sign, suggesting that the community is cognizant of the importance of these issues. However, it is important to note that there is still room for improvement. For example, the survey found that a small proportion of respondents (11.6%) did not know much about women's rights and empowerment. This suggests that there is a need to continue raising awareness about these issues within the community.




Impact of Traditional Practices

The survey also found that a substantial proportion of respondents (42.9%) believed that traditional practices, such as Jirgas or Panchayats, have a noteworthy impact on women's rights and safety within the community. This is a concerning finding, as it suggests that these traditional practices may be perpetuating gender inequality and discrimination.

It is important to note that there is a diversity of perspectives on the impact of traditional practices on women's rights and safety. Some respondents believe that these practices have a negative impact, while others believe that they can be beneficial for women. It is important to understand these different perspectives to develop effective strategies for promoting women's rights and empowerment.




Opportunities for Education and Employment

The survey found that a majority of respondents (85.7%) were optimistic about the opportunities for women to pursue education and secure better employment. This is a positive finding, suggesting that the community believes that women have the potential to succeed in these areas. However, it is important to note that there is still a significant minority of respondents (14.3%) who believe that opportunities for women in education and employment are lacking. This suggests that there is a need to address the barriers that may be preventing some women from reaching their full potential.




Efficacy of Legal Reforms

The survey also found that a dichotomy of perspectives exists regarding the potential influence of legal measures on women's empowerment. While a majority of respondents (85.7%) believe that changing laws and ensuring their enforcement could indeed empower women, a significant minority (14.3%) believe that legal reforms are not effective. This divergence in responses suggests that there is a need to build awareness about the importance of legal protections for women and to ensure that these laws are implemented effectively.




Awareness of 'Karo-Kari'

The survey found that a substantial proportion of respondents (66.7%) were aware of the practice of 'Karo-Kari,' which involves individuals, predominantly women, facing violence or even death in the name of honor. This is a concerning finding, as it suggests that this harmful practice is still prevalent in the community. However, it is also a positive finding that the majority of respondents are aware of this practice. This suggests that the community is grappling with this reality and is committed to addressing it.

Conclusion

To conclude, this study addresses critical gaps in the understanding of women's empowerment and gender inequality in rural Sindh, with a specific focus on Pano Aqil. The literature review reveals several pressing issues that highlight the need for more detailed research in this area. One significant gap is the varying levels of awareness regarding women's rights and empowerment. Existing studies indicate that while some communities show increased awareness, comprehensive knowledge and engagement remain limited, particularly in rural settings like Pano Aqil. This study aims to provide a clearer picture of current awareness levels within this specific community.

Another major issue identified is the impact of traditional practices, such as Jirgas and Panchayats, on women's rights and safety. The literature suggests that these practices often perpetuate gender inequality and pose significant barriers to women's empowerment. However, there is limited research on how these practices specifically affect rural communities. This study seeks to explore these impacts in Pano Aqil and assess effective strategies to counteract their influence.

Barriers to education and employment for women are also well-documented, including cultural norms, early marriages, and gender bias. Despite this, detailed insights into the specific barriers faced by women in Pano Aqil are sparse. This research will provide localized information on these obstacles, aiming to identify and address the unique challenges women face in accessing education and employment opportunities.

The effectiveness of legal reforms in enhancing women's rights is another area with gaps in existing research. While there is general agreement on the importance of legal reforms, there is limited understanding of their perceived effectiveness and impact in rural Sindh. This study will evaluate how these reforms are viewed locally and their actual impact on women's rights in Pano Aqil.

Finally, the issue of harmful practices such as 'Karo-Kari' remains prevalent, with varying levels of awareness within communities. Existing research highlights the need for increased awareness and educational campaigns but lacks targeted strategies for specific contexts. This study will examine the level of awareness about 'Karo-Kari' in Pano Aqil and explore how such awareness can be raised and utilized effectively.

By addressing these gaps, this study offers valuable insights into the current situation in Pano Aqil. Through a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, including surveys and secondary data analysis, the research will shed light on the level of awareness, impact of traditional practices, barriers to education and employment, effectiveness of legal reforms, and awareness of harmful practices. The findings aim to inform policymakers, community leaders, and organizations, providing a foundation for targeted interventions and future studies to enhance women's empowerment and address gender inequality in rural Sindh.

Recommendations

The survey findings provide a valuable overview of the status of women's rights and empowerment in rural Sindh, Pakistan. The data reveals both promising and concerning signs. On the one hand, there is a high level of awareness regarding women's rights and empowerment within the community. On the other hand, there are still areas of concern, such as the impact of traditional practices, the lack of opportunities for some women, and the mixed perspectives on the efficacy of legal reforms.

Overall, the survey findings suggest that there is a need for continued efforts to promote women's rights and empowerment in rural Sindh. This can be achieved through a variety of initiatives, such as:

? Raising awareness about women's rights and empowerment within the community

? Addressing the barriers that may be preventing some women from accessing education and employment opportunities

? Ensuring the effective implementation of laws that protect women's rights

? Combating harmful practices, such as 'Karo-Kari'

By taking these steps, we can create a more equitable and just society for all women and girls in rural Sindh.

References

• Adult literacy education for women in rural Sindh. (n.d.). Global Giving. https://www.globalgiving.org/microprojects/adult-literacy-education-for-women-in-rural-sindh/

• Ahmed, A. (2023). Pakistan ranks 142 out of 146 countries in WEF’s global gender gap report. DAWN.COM. https://www.dawn.com/news/1760949
• Ali, S., & Cheema, A. R. (2018, May 16). Exploring the many barriers to a girl's education in Sindh. LSE South Asia Blog. https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/southasia/2018/05/16/exploring-the-many-barriers-to-a-girls-education-in-sindh-pakistan/
• Junejo, M. A. (2020). Impact of traditional cultural values on female education in Sukkur, Pakistan. Typeset. https://typeset.io/papers/impact-of-traditional-cultural-values-on-female-education-in-1t8b5xf5z9
• Khadim, K. (2022). Less facilities in hospitals of rural areas. Pakistan Observer. https://pakobserver.net/less-facilities-in-hospitals-of-rural-areas-by-khushi-khadim/
• K. Shailaja, Smt. (2019). Importance of education in women empowerment. Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research. https://typeset.io/papers/importance-of-education-in-women-empowerment-4z2danhex2
• Muneer, S. (2017). Pro-women laws in Pakistan: Challenges. ProQuest, 18(2), 86–101.
• Nirala, S. K. (2020). Role of Education in Women Empowerment: A Sociological Study. International Journal of Applied Research, 6(8), 127–129.
• Rahman, N., & Thompson, S. (2022). Roadblocks remain: Constraints to women's political participation in Pakistan. SSRN Electronic Journal. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4082836 
• Sheikh, U. (2020, August 19). Man arrested for allegedly killing 11 members of his family in Pano Aqil—Pakistan. DAWN.COM. https://www.dawn.com/news/1575276
• Tunio, N. (2022, February 12). So-called education in rural areas of Pakistan. Daily Parliament Times. https://www.dailyparliamenttimes.com/2022/02/12/so-called-education-in-rural-areas-of-pakistan/
• Wa, P., Ah, G., & D, K. P. (2016). Gender Inequality Causes and impacts on honor Killing: A case study of District Shikarpur, Sindh, Pakistan. Arts and Social Sciences Journal, 07(06). https://doi.org/10.4172/2151-6200.1000229