Aurat March Arrests in Islamabad: Activists Detained Before Women’s Day Rally
Police detained several women’s rights activists in Islamabad on Sunday before a planned rally for International Women’s Day. Participants had gathered near the Super Market area in Sector F-6 to start their march. However, officers quickly moved in and took them into custody. News of the Aurat March arrests spread quickly across social media. As a result, civil society groups and political leaders raised concerns about the right to peaceful protest.
Police Cite Legal Restrictions
Police said they acted because Section 144 remained in force in Islamabad. This rule bans gatherings of four or more people for a limited time. Therefore, officials described the rally as an unlawful assembly. Authorities had also refused to grant a no-objection certificate for the march.
A large police contingent waited outside the National Press Club before the activists arrived. Officers stopped the group and transported them to the Women Police Station. Among those detained was well-known activist Dr Farzana Bari. In addition, several organisers and participants of the Aurat March were taken into custody.
Officials also mentioned security concerns. For example, authorities feared a possible clash with opposing groups. Reports suggested that the Lal Masjid administration had vowed to stop the rally. As a result, police said they detained the activists to prevent unrest.
Activists Condemn Detentions
Activists and civil society groups strongly criticised the police action. They argued that women gathered peacefully to highlight issues such as gender-based violence. Therefore, they called the detentions unjust and unnecessary.
The Human Rights Cell of the Pakistan Peoples Party also condemned the move. Representatives said authorities should protect democratic rights instead of restricting them. In addition, they demanded that officials withdraw all charges against the detainees.
Organisers later shared videos showing activists inside a police vehicle. They also claimed that families and lawyers initially could not meet those detained. Supporters soon gathered outside the Women Police Station in protest. The Aurat March movement began in 2018 and continues to advocate equality and safe public spaces for women.
