Actress Amna Ilyas has voiced significant concerns about her safety in Pakistan, emphasizing the urgent need for stricter punishments for rapists and harassers.
In an interview, Ilyas expressed her feelings of insecurity, stating, “As a woman, I don’t feel safe. I fear that if something were to happen to me and the other party is influential, the law seems to favor the powerful rather than protecting everyone equally.”
Ilyas, known for her advocacy for women’s rights, is currently starring in the romantic-comedy film Mastaani, which explores themes of freedom and marriage choices for women. Directed by Usman Rizvi, the film also features Affan Waheed in his debut role. Ilyas plays the character Aliya, who confronts societal taboos and issues related to women’s autonomy.
Pakistan’s gender equality index ranks the country 145th out of 146, reflecting severe issues in women’s safety and rights.
A report by the Sustainable Social Development Organisation revealed that in 2023 alone, there were 6,624 reported rape cases in Punjab, equating to one assault every 45 minutes. This data, released on International Women’s Day, underscores the dire need for reform.
Ilyas criticized the current legal system, stating, “Our system is failing, and it needs to address these issues seriously.”
She vowed to continue speaking out for women’s rights, condemning the judicial system for its handling of high-profile cases like that of Noor Mukadam. Mukadam was murdered by Zahir Jaffar in July 2021, and while Jaffar was sentenced to death, Ilyas lamented the perceived leniency in the judicial process.
She concluded by urging viewers to watch Mastaani, which she believes is important for both children and women as it addresses significant societal issues.
