PESHAWAR: An anti-rape cell was inaugurated in the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology of Khyber Medical College (KMC) on Wednesday.
The first of its kind in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the third such initiative in the country, the cell was established in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Legal Aid Society.
Khyber Medical College (KMC) Dean Prof. Dr. Mahmood Aurangzeb, Forensic Department Chairman Prof. Dr. Hakeem Afridi participated in the inauguration ceremony. Justice (retd) Arif Hussain Khalji, Chief Legal Adviser, Legal Aid Society; Dr. Rubina Ali, UNFPA Assistant Country Representative; Mah Jabin, Program Coordinator; Muhammad Zakaria; Salih Rama and other dignitaries.
Prof. Dr. Mahmood Aurangzeb reiterated the institution’s commitment to help victims of sexual violence. “KMC and Khyber Teaching Hospital have always been leaders in forensic services, research and training. This anti-rape cell reflects our ongoing commitment to provide skilled and compassionate support to victims,” he said.
Prof. Dr. Hakeem Afridi emphasized the importance of spreading the Anti-Rape Crisis Cell (ARCC) model across the province to the divisional level. “Our department has dealt with more than 300 rape cases before setting up this cell. This new initiative will further enhance access and support for victims,” he added.
Darkhane Ejaz, senior manager of Legal Aid Society, emphasized the importance of the cell and said that it is the third such facility in the country after Karachi and Islamabad. “This cell will provide medico-legal, police and legal support under one roof, reduce delays and ensure a safe and supportive environment for victims,” he said. UNFPA Assistant Country Representative Dr. Rubina Ali highlighted the importance of joint efforts.