Staff Reporter
Peshawar: An important workshop for media professionals was held in Peshawar with the aim of raising awareness about comprehensive legal reforms concerning marginalized communities, particularly Christian family laws. The workshop was organized by the National Lobbying Delegation for Minority Rights.
The workshop was attended by radio broadcasters, photojournalists, and journalists from print and electronic media, along with YouTubers. The participation of non-Muslim media professionals, including Ubaid Bhatti and Zeeshan Yaqoob, made the discussion more inclusive and meaningful.
Speakers at the workshop included Haroon Sarab Dyal (Focal Person, National Lobbying Delegation for Minority Rights Khyber Pakhtunkhwa), along with Romana Bashir (Islamabad), Shezan William (Balochistan), Habqooq Rafiq Gul (Punjab), and media consultant Shabana Arif.
The speakers urged media representatives to play an effective role in promoting constitutional rights and legal protections, and to work as responsible citizens for the betterment of society, particularly by advocating for the protection of family laws of marginalized communities. They also emphasized the need for the media to actively raise its voice for legal reforms in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
During the workshop, detailed discussions were held on Christian family laws, including the Christian Marriage Act 1872, the Divorce Act 1869, and the Christian Succession Act 1925. The speakers described these laws as remnants of the colonial era, stating that many of their provisions are outdated and require immediate reforms.
Discussions were also held on inheritance laws and the system of property distribution, which are key aspects of legal reforms related to the Christian community.
The speakers pointed out that these laws became further complicated during the era of General Zia-ul-Haq, and that their effective implementation still faces challenges today, mainly due to lack of awareness, weak enforcement, and a non-uniform legal system.
Participants also discussed how the media can bridge the gap between legislation and public awareness, particularly in relation to personal laws, child protection, and minority rights.
At the conclusion of the workshop, emphasis was placed on strengthening collaboration between media, civil society, and policymakers, raising a strong voice for comprehensive legal reforms, and ensuring effective protection of the rights of all citizens.
