Hundreds Gather in Karachi Despite Tight Restrictions and Uncertainty
The annual Aurat March took place in Karachi on Sunday despite restrictions, uncertainty, and recent arrests of women’s rights activists. The demonstration was held at Clifton’s Beach View Park and drew hundreds of participants determined to raise their voices for women’s rights and social justice.
This year’s march coincided with Mother’s Day and focused on issues including bodily autonomy, freedom of movement, domestic violence, and marital rape. Organizers and participants said the event represented resistance against silence, fear, and social pressure.
Authorities had imposed restrictions on what participants could say, wear, and carry during the event. Despite these limitations, protesters continued raising slogans and carrying messages demanding equal rights and protection for women.
One of the most prominent slogans heard throughout the gathering was “My body, my choice,” which has become closely associated with the Aurat March movement over recent years.
Participants described the gathering as both a protest and a space for solidarity where women could openly discuss issues often ignored in society.
The atmosphere combined activism, art, speeches, and cultural performances as demonstrators moved forward despite concerns about security and restrictions.
Shanti Case Becomes Emotional Focus of This Year’s March
A major focus of the march was the case of Shanti, a 19-year-old newlywed from Lyari who died after allegedly suffering severe sexual violence shortly after her marriage.
Organizers dedicated a symbolic display to her memory. Wedding gifts associated with her marriage were placed on a white sheet at the venue, creating a powerful reminder of a young life lost too soon.
Speakers at the march demanded justice and called for stronger legal protections against marital rape and violence against women.
Shanti’s sister-in-law delivered an emotional speech, urging authorities to cancel the bail granted to Dr. Rauf Shaikh, who has faced criticism regarding his handling of the case.
Women’s rights activists claim that proper medical treatment may have improved Shanti’s chances of survival. The case has become a major symbol in discussions surrounding violence against women and gaps in legal protection.
Participants stressed that conversations about abuse, harassment, and violence should not be treated as social taboos. Several speakers argued that discussing personal experiences openly is necessary for creating awareness and accountability.
A performer at the event said many women remain unaware of their rights because social conditioning teaches them to accept abuse silently.
Activists Defend Right to Protest and Demand Social Change
The right to organize and participate in the Aurat March also became a major issue during the gathering. Veteran artist and women’s rights activist Sheema Kermani strongly defended the constitutional right to peaceful protest.
She criticized the restrictions imposed on the march and described attempts to control women’s clothing and expression as unacceptable.
Kermani also spoke about her recent detention outside Karachi Press Club, claiming police officers forcefully entered her vehicle during the incident.
Participants at the march emphasized that the movement extends beyond one annual protest. Organizers highlighted welfare programs, awareness campaigns, and medical support initiatives for women in underserved communities.
The event also featured performances including music, dance, poetry, and protest art focused on themes of resistance and empowerment.
A new addition this year was a symbolic “Misogynist of the Year” segment highlighting public criticism toward statements and behavior viewed as harmful to women’s rights.
Several first-time participants said the march gave women confidence to enter public and political spaces more actively.
Volunteers also described the Aurat March as a safe environment promoting respectful interaction among all genders.
Police presence remained visible throughout the event. Female police officers escorted the procession as participants marched from Beach View Park toward Seaview.
Despite challenges and restrictions, organizers said the strong turnout demonstrated that demands for women’s rights and justice continue gaining public support in Karachi and beyond.
