Islamabad, Pakistan — The government on March 9, 2026, defended police action against participants of an unauthorized Aurat March in the federal capital, stating that the rally violated Section 144 and posed a clear threat to law and order. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry told the National Assembly that no permission had been granted and that organizers deliberately attempted to create disruption despite similar events being called off in Karachi and Lahore. Over 40 participants were later released after intervention by senior leaders, including Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar and PPP leader Sherry Rehman.
Meanwhile, Aurat March organizers and civil society activists held a press conference at the National Press Club, strongly criticizing the police for alleged manhandling and demanding an independent investigation into the incident.
PPP lawmakers took on the government in the National Assembly over the detention of Aurat March activists in Islamabad on March 8, questioning police action against protesters on International Women’s Day.@NuktaPakistan pic.twitter.com/rtu0Nde8Cb
— Ali Hamza (@alihamzaisb) March 9, 2026
Key Highlights
- Police action taken after Aurat March organizers proceeded without NOC under imposed Section 144.
- Minister Talal Chaudhry said the rally was an illegal assembly aimed at creating law and order issues.
- Over 40 participants released following intervention by senior government and PPP leaders.
- Aurat March leadership accused police of manhandling women, using threats, and forcing affidavits.
- Organizers demanded a full probe and action against those responsible for the arrests.
The authorities maintained that enforcing the law was necessary to protect public safety and prevent any untoward incident during a sensitive time. Minister Chaudhry pointed out that peaceful alternatives existed, but the decision to hold the march without permission left no choice but to act.
🚨🚨#BREAKING: In a deploring development, @ICT_Police crackdowns on peaceful @AuratMarch activists/organisers in #Islamabad and arrested many included @drfarzanabari and shifted them to G-7 women police station. pic.twitter.com/z9En5KGZTZ
— Asad Ali Toor (@AsadAToor) March 8, 2026
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry stated, “No NOC had been issued, yet an illegal assembly was organised. Similar marches in Karachi and Lahore were called off, and the same should have happened here.”
Aurat March organizers, however, reacted sharply at their press conference. Dr Farzana Bari said civil society cannot accept restrictions that violate basic rights to protest. HRCP Secretary General Haris Khalique described the arrests as heavy-handed, claiming women were beaten, their hair pulled, and forced to sign affidavits. Several speakers, including lawyer Kashmala, alleged poor conditions in the lockup and demanded accountability.
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Pakistan has always valued the peaceful expression of views, but the rule of law remains supreme to ensure safety for all citizens. The government’s firm yet responsible handling of the situation once again reflects its commitment to maintaining order while respecting fundamental rights. Both sides have now put forward their positions, and any further inquiry will help strengthen public trust in institutions.
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