Rights advocates argue that laws tied to national security are increasingly used to curb criticism
FILE: Activists of ‘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 mistreated by police, as rights groups warn of a widening crackdown on dissent.
Mavra Bari, a 36-year-old sociologist, said she had planned to join celebrations in Islamabad on March 8 but instead spent about 12 hours in detention.
“What was meant to be a celebration turned into a horrible experience,” she said, describing a cramped holding area with poor sanitation and dozens of detainees, including women, men and children. “We were beaten.”
More than 30 people were held, according to accounts from those present. An AFP journalist saw detainees upon release, some appearing shaken and showing 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 stance and rights concern
The detentions 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.
Human rights organisations, however, say such incidents reflect a broader 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 tied to national security are increasingly used to curb criticism.
Usama Khilji said authorities frequently frame 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 taking on sensitive human rights cases, who is currently imprisoned alongside her husband over alleged anti-state social media activity.
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 held during the march. “I was detained without any reason,” she said.
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Reporters Without Borders has similarly raised concerns about growing pressure on independent media and tighter controls on information.
Harris Khalique of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan described recent restrictions as “draconian.”
Activists undeterred
Police later told detainees they had violated a law restricting gatherings of more than four people.
Days after the arrests, a large rally 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 would do to us.”
Others echoed that sentiment, saying the experience would not deter them from future activism.
