KARACHI: Police briefly detained several leaders of the Aurat March, including activist and artist Sheema Kermani, outside the Karachi Press Club when they gathered for a press conference on Wednesday.
According to organisers, those detained included transgender activist Shehzadi Rai, Muniza, and other participants. Police moved several women leaders to a nearby station; however, authorities released them shortly afterward. South SSP Manzoor Ali confirmed the release and stated that the situation remained under control.
Following the incident, police increased their presence around the press club, which raised concerns among civil society members. Meanwhile, Aurat March organisers maintained that the gathering was solely intended for a media briefing and did not involve any protest activity.
In response, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan expressed strong concern and condemned the detentions. In a statement posted on X, the commission described the action as part of a “deeply troubling pattern” of restricting public space for citizens seeking to exercise their rights.
Furthermore, the commission emphasized that the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are guaranteed under the Constitution. It argued that preventing citizens, particularly women and marginalized groups, from holding even a press conference reflects an increasingly restrictive approach to governance.
Consequently, rights advocates warned that such actions could undermine democratic norms. They urged authorities to ensure that fundamental freedoms remain protected and that citizens can engage in lawful and peaceful civic activities without undue interference.
