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ISLAMABAD: At least 25 women’s rights activists, including prominent members of the Aurat March, were detained by police on Sunday as they gathered to mark International Women’s Day in the federal capital.
Details of the Arrests
- The detentions occurred at Super Market in Sector F-6, where activists were preparing for a planned march.
- The detained participants were taken to the Women Police Station in G-7 Markaz.
- Authorities cited a violation of Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, currently in effect in Islamabad, which prohibits the assembly of four or more people to maintain public order.
Response from Aurat March Organisers
- The Aurat March Islamabad organisers shared footage on social media showing activists, including Dr. Farzana Bari, inside police vehicles.
- The organisers stated that the arrests were made despite the protest being peaceful and lawful in nature.
- They also alleged that access to the detainees was being restricted, with family members and legal representatives reportedly barred from meeting those in custody.
Police Statement
- Police confirmed the gathering was unauthorised under the standing administrative orders.
- An FIR has not yet been registered, and authorities indicated that the women could be released later.
Ongoing Concerns
- Human rights organisations are closely monitoring the situation.
- Calls for the immediate release of the detained activists continue amid rising public attention on the enforcement of Section 144 during protests.
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding public demonstrations for women’s rights in Islamabad and the legal challenges faced under Section 144.
