The Lahore High Court (LHC) has granted approval for the Aurat March scheduled for February 12, following petitions by activist Leena Ghani and other supporters.
The hearing, led by Justice Anwar Hussain, included the government’s legal representative submitting a letter confirming the security arrangements for the march. The court instructed authorities to implement thorough security measures for the participants.
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The organisers had filed a contempt petition against Lahore Deputy Commissioner Syed Musa Raza and other officials for their delay in processing the request. The petitioners, including activists Khawar Mumtaz, Leena Ghani, Neelam Hussain, Fatima Jan, and Shereen Umair, had approached the court after their initial application in January had not been addressed.
They accused the officials of using delaying tactics and failing to follow a 2023 court order to facilitate the event. During the court proceedings, it was confirmed that permission for the march had been granted, and authorities would ensure proper security for the event.
The Department of Education has pledged additional support for the demonstration, which will follow its usual route from Lahore Press Club to Edgerton Road. The petitioners argued that the delay infringed upon their constitutional right to freedom of assembly and expression under Articles 16 and 19 of Pakistan’s Constitution.
A letter from the Additional Deputy Commissioner confirmed that “foolproof security” arrangements have been made, ensuring the march can proceed on February 12, coinciding with Pakistan’s National Women’s Day.
The march will highlight gender-related issues such as women’s rights and discrimination, with participants from various communities expected to join in large numbers from across Lahore and Pakistan. Although the organisers have won their legal battle, concerns remain about the difficulties they faced in securing approval, but they are now focused on ensuring a peaceful and inclusive march.
