Rights advocates argue that laws linked to national security are increasingly being used to stifle criticism
FILE: Activists from the ‘Aurat March’ group take part in a rally to mark Pakistan’s National Women’s Day in Lahore on February 12, 2025 PHOTO: AFP
Participants in an International Women’s Day march in Pakistan’s capital say they were detained and beaten by police, as rights groups warn of a growing crackdown on dissent.
Mavra Bari, a 36-year-old sociologist, said she had planned to attend the celebrations in Islamabad on March 8, but instead spent about 12 hours in detention.
“What was meant to be a party turned into a horrible experience,” she said, describing a cramped holding area with poor sanitation and dozens of prisoners, including women, men and children. “We were beaten.”
More than 30 people were detained, according to accounts from those present. An AFP journalist saw prisoners upon release, some appeared shaken and showed visible bruises and swelling.
Outside the police station, a man said his daughter had only come to observe the march. “She did nothing wrong,” he said.
Official position and rights
The jailings came despite public support for women’s empowerment expressed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who said on March 8 that women’s rights are central to national development.
However, human rights organizations say such incidents reflect a wider pattern. Amnesty International has warned of a “shrinking space for dissent”, citing arbitrary detentions and restrictions on peaceful assembly.
Authorities often do not clearly explain the reasons for arrests, activists say.
National security concerns cited
Rights advocates argue that laws linked to national security are increasingly being used to stifle criticism.
Usama Khilji said the authorities often portray dissent as a security issue. “Anyone can be punished,” he said.
Human Rights Watch has documented cases of intimidation, enforced disappearances, and legal pressure against activists, journalists, and lawyers.
Among high-profile cases is Imaan Mazari, known for tackling sensitive human rights cases, who is currently jailed along with her husband for alleged anti-government activity on social media.
Media under pressure
Press freedom groups say journalists also face increasing risks.
The Committee to Protect Journalists reported that at least seven journalists were killed in Pakistan in 2024, while others faced harassment or detention.
Sehrish Qureshi said she was detained when she went to a police station to inquire about colleagues being held during the march. “I was detained for no reason,” she said.
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Reporters Without Borders has similarly raised concerns about increasing pressure on independent media and tighter controls on information.
Harris Khalique of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan described the latest restrictions as “draconian”.
Activists are undeterred
Police later told those detained that they had violated a law limiting gatherings of more than four people.
Days after the arrests, a large demonstration marking Al-Quds Day was held in Islamabad without similar intervention, according to activists.
Despite the risks, many participants say they remain committed to speaking out.
“It was scary at first,” Bari said. “We didn’t know why we were arrested or what they were going to do to us.”
Others echoed this sentiment, saying the experience would not deter them from future activism.
