The organisers of Aurat March Islamabad have called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to intervene and direct the Islamabad administration to grant them a Non-Objection Certificate (NOC) for their annual rally on International Women’s Day, March 8.
In an open letter posted on social media, the organisers stated that despite applying for an NOC over the past six years, they have consistently been denied the right to a safe and peaceful protest at the Islamabad Press Club.
They further highlighted that their members have faced violence from religious extremist groups, law enforcement, and Islamabad authorities in previous years, painting a negative image of Pakistan’s commitment to women’s rights on the global stage.
Emphasising the significance of International Women’s Day, the organisers stressed that the event represents an ongoing fight for gender equality, protection of women’s rights, and resistance against patriarchal structures. They described it as a crucial platform for expressing solidarity, raising concerns, and advocating for an inclusive society.
Appealing to the premier, they urged him to uphold the right of women to assemble and mark the occasion without unnecessary hurdles.
The group expressed hope for a positive response and a swift approval of the NOC.
Meanwhile, in Lahore, the local chapter of Aurat March recently filed a contempt of court case against Lahore Deputy Commissioner Syed Musa Raza and other officials for failing to grant permission for their demonstration.
The Lahore High Court was later informed that the march had been scheduled for February 12, with law enforcement ensuring security. DC Raza confirmed in court that permission had been granted, and a government representative submitted details of security arrangements for the event.
