Crowd Gathers for Women’s March in Karachi Despite Restrictions

Karachi, May 13: Despite restrictions imposed by Pakistani authorities, hundreds gathered at Sea View for the Women’s March to raise awareness on issues affecting countless women in the country. Over the years, the Women’s March has become a significant platform for discussing women’s rights and social justice in Pakistan.

An editorial in The Express Tribune highlighted one of the most poignant moments of the event, which was a tribute to peace. It commemorated a 19-year-old bride from Lyari, whose tragic death following alleged sexual violence reignited discussions on domestic violence and the silence surrounding it. Such events are crucial as they provide a space for society to openly discuss topics that are often avoided.

The Constitution of Pakistan guarantees the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. These rights are not exclusive to any one group but are meant for all citizens, regardless of whether their views are popular or controversial.

The Express Tribune stated that it is not the responsibility of Pakistani authorities to endorse the messages of every public gathering but to ensure that people can safely and responsibly exercise their constitutional rights.

On May 6, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) condemned the detention of Women’s March organizers and volunteers outside the Karachi Press Club, where they had gathered for a press conference.

According to reports from Geo News, the rights organization stated that preventing people from holding a press conference reflects a growing repressive attitude from the government, where dissent is viewed as a threat rather than a necessity for democracy.

The HRCP’s statement followed an incident where police briefly detained several leaders of the Women’s March outside the Karachi Press Club, including activist and artist Sheema Kirmani.

In a post on X, the HRCP expressed, “We strongly condemn the arrest of several organizers and volunteers of the Women’s March outside the Karachi Press Club. They were there to address a press conference. This is not an isolated incident but part of a systematic effort to keep citizens from voicing their rights in public spaces.”

It further stated, “The rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are guaranteed by the Constitution. Especially preventing women and marginalized groups from holding press conferences shows that the government’s attitude is increasingly repressive, viewing dissent not as a necessity for democracy but as a threat.”