The Punjab Women Protection Authority (PWPA), in collaboration with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), has introduced a new “Cyber Patrolling Unit” to monitor online platforms for harassment. Though this move is being promoted as a step forward for women’s digital safety, it raises more questions than it answers — and highlights a troubling disconnect from the real-world dangers women face in Punjab.
Too Many Agencies, Too Little Impact
The NCCIA was originally established under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) to handle cybercrime, taking over from the FIA. But it was quietly dissolved soon after, and its responsibilities returned to the FIA. Then came the proposed Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), intended to oversee similar digital concerns. Alongside these developments, PECA was amended to increase government control over online spaces.
In this sea of overlapping agencies and evolving laws, the launch of yet another cyber unit seems more about appearances than actual reform. Are we solving problems or just adding more acronyms?
Ignoring Real-World Violence Against Women
While online harassment is a serious issue, it’s not the most immediate threat for women in Punjab. The province is facing a crisis of rape, domestic violence, kidnapping, and honor killings — all rising at alarming rates.
Instead of addressing these issues through stronger policing, judicial reforms, and victim support, the government has focused its attention on vague digital initiatives with little proven impact. The cyber unit, in essence, diverts attention from the violence women face daily on the streets and in their homes.
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Unclear Mission, Undefined Methods
The unit’s purpose and tools remain vague. What does “cyber patrolling” mean in practice? Will the unit use AI tools, manual monitoring, or third-party tech platforms? Who defines what qualifies as “harassment”?
Without clear guidelines and transparency, this could easily lead to government overreach, surveillance, and censorship — rather than protection.
Data Doesn’t Lie: Gender-Based Violence in Punjab
According to SSDO Pakistan, Punjab reported the highest number of gender-based violence incidents in 2024:
| Crime Type | Total Cases (Pakistan) | Cases in Punjab | Conviction Rate (Pakistan) | Conviction Rate (Punjab) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rape | 5,339 | 4,641 | 0.5% | 0.4% |
| Kidnapping/Abduction | 24,439 | 20,720 | 0.1% | 0.1% |
| Domestic Violence | 2,238 | 1,167 | 1.3% | 0.3% |
| Honor Killings | 547 | 225 | 0.5% | 0.9% |
These numbers show a justice system that is failing women, yet the government continues to prioritize high-visibility tech solutions instead of fixing the root problems.
What Could Have Worked Better?
If the goal was truly to protect women online, the focus should have been on:
- Expanding digital literacy and privacy education
- Training law enforcement to respond to cyber complaints more effectively
- Collaborating with civil society, women’s rights groups, and digital safety experts
- Ensuring survivors have a say in policy design
None of these steps appear to have been taken. Without survivor voices and expert input, this initiative risks being just another PR move.
Trust Can’t Be Built on Buzzwords
Many women hesitate to report abuse due to fear of not being taken seriously. A vague “cyber unit” with no clear process or protection mechanism will not build trust — it may even deter women further from seeking help.
Real protection comes from functional institutions, not flashy announcements.
Conclusion: Less Optics, More Action Needed
Punjab’s Cyber Patrolling Unit fails to address the core issues of violence against women. It reflects poor planning, a lack of stakeholder engagement, and a troubling shift toward surveillance over service. If the government is serious about protecting women, it must shift focus from online theatrics to real-world reforms, justice system improvements, and community-level support.
