Woman Appointed as Village Numberdar in Sargodha, Breaking Tradition

Sargodha Lahore Nazrana Times Ali Imran Chattha 

Woman Appointed as Village Numberdar in Sargodha’s Chak 107 South A Notable Shift in Rural Leadership
 

A significant and unusual development has emerged in Chak 107 South, a village in the Sargodha district of Punjab, where Saadia Faiz has been appointed as the village’s Numberdar. This decision has attracted attention not only locally but across the province, as the position has traditionally been held by men.
According to sources, Saadia Faiz assumed this responsibility following the death of her father, Faiz Muhammad, who had served as the village Numberdar for many years. Considering the family’s long-standing role and local influence, she was nominated for the position, which was later formally approved by the district administration.
Legal experts state that the position of Numberdar in Punjab’s rural system is not restricted by gender, and women are legally eligible to hold this office. However, in practice, such cases have been extremely rare, making Saadia Faiz’s appointment a noteworthy and positive development.
Local residents describe Saadia Faiz as an educated and socially active individual. They express hope that her leadership will contribute to improved development work and better resolution of community issues. Some circles have termed this appointment as an important step toward women’s empowerment.
Officials from the district administration have confirmed that the approval was granted only after fulfilling all legal requirements, ensuring transparency in the process.
Social analysts believe this development reflects a gradual shift in the mindset of rural Punjab, where women are increasingly being given opportunities not only in education but also in leadership roles.
It is worth noting that the Numberdar plays a crucial role in the rural administrative system, acting as a bridge between the government and the local population, particularly in matters related to revenue, law and order, and other administrative affairs.
The appointment of Saadia Faiz as Numberdar is being seen as a precedent that may pave the way for greater participation of women in leadership roles across other rural areas in the future.