LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has declared that harassment of women remains a “red line” for her government amid the ongoing controversy surrounding actress Momina Iqbal and PML-N lawmaker Saqib Chadhar.
According to an official post shared in the Chief Minister of Punjab’s WhatsApp group on Friday, the provincial government reiterated its commitment to protecting women and ensuring justice in harassment-related cases. The post included a picture of Maryam Nawaz alongside Momina Iqbal under the title, “Harassment of women is red line.”
The statement emerged as the alleged harassment case involving the actress continued to attract public and political attention. Earlier, Hina Pervaiz Butt, Chairperson of the Punjab Women Protection Authority, assured the public that justice would be ensured in the matter.
Punjab Government Reaffirms Support for Women
Hina Pervaiz Butt previously stated that the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) had already initiated legal proceedings following Momina Iqbal’s complaint. She also rejected allegations suggesting that individuals linked to the Punjab Chief Minister’s Office were attempting to suppress the issue.
Moreover, the Punjab Women Protection Authority emphasized that Maryam Nawaz’s commitment to women’s protection extends beyond political slogans. Officials maintained that the provincial government remains determined to act firmly against harassment and intimidation targeting women.
The case gained further attention after Momina Iqbal’s lawyers alleged that the actress faced harassment and threats following the breakdown of her relationship with Saqib Chadhar. The legal team also claimed that documentary and digital evidence had already been submitted before investigators.
Investigation Continues Amid Public Attention
Meanwhile, authorities continue to investigate the allegations under the supervision of the NCCIA. The controversy has sparked widespread debate on women’s safety, political influence, and the protection of female artists in Pakistan.
Despite the ongoing dispute, Momina Iqbal’s legal representatives recently announced that her wedding celebrations would proceed as scheduled on June 1. Furthermore, they expressed confidence that investigating authorities would ensure transparency and fairness in the inquiry.
