ISLAMABAD – At least 25 women’s rights activists were taken into custody in Islamabad as they prepared to observe International Women’s Day, reports say. The detentions included several prominent figures associated with the Aurat March.
Police arrested the activists at the Super Market in Sector F-6, where they had begun gathering for a planned rally. The detained activists were later moved to the Women Police Station in G-7 Markaz.
Authorities stated that the arrests were made under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. This law prohibits the assembly of four or more people to maintain public order. Police confirmed that the gathering was considered an unauthorised violation of these standing administrative orders.
Organisers of the Aurat March Islamabad shared footage of the incident on social media. The videos showed activists, including Dr Farzana Bari, being held in police vehicles. In their statement, the organisers said the women were detained while attempting to hold a peaceful protest.
Family members and lawyers of the detained activists reported being denied access to the women in custody. Human rights groups are closely monitoring the situation and have urged authorities to release the activists immediately.
Police added that no first information report (FIR) had been registered yet. Officials indicated that the women could be released after review of the case.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions around public demonstrations in Islamabad, especially those connected to the Aurat March, which has become a platform for women’s rights advocacy across Pakistan. Organisers insist that their movement is peaceful and aims to raise awareness on gender equality issues.
In other news read more about Aurat March 2025 to be Held in May in Respect of Ramazan
Authorities continue to enforce Section 144 in the federal capital to prevent large gatherings, while civil society groups call for dialogue to protect citizens’ rights to assembly and expression.
