Karachi: The Sindh government took swift action on Wednesday and suspended three police officers for their alleged role in the brief arrest and mistreatment of veteran women’s rights activist Sheema Kermani and other Aurat March participants. Authorities acted after activists gathered outside the Karachi Press Club on Tuesday to demand a no-objection certificate for their upcoming annual march.
Home Minister Orders Strict Probe
Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hasan Lanjar ordered an immediate investigation into the incident. He made it clear that the government follows a zero-tolerance policy against any abuse of power. Lanjar stressed that authorities will protect the dignity and rights of women at all costs.
Transitioning to the details of the case, police briefly detained the activists, including classical dancer and theatre practitioner Sheema Kermani, during their press conference at the Karachi Press Club. The suspended officers include DSP Saddar Nasir Afridi, SHO Hina Mughal, and Artillery Maidan SHO Nadeem Haider. Officials released the activists shortly after the home minister intervened.
Activists Vow to Continue Their Campaign
Aurat March organisers reacted strongly to the detentions. In a post on X, they declared they will not back down from their demands and will keep pushing for the NOC. They described the arrests as shameful scare tactics meant to suppress dissent and called upon the provincial government to explain the delay in granting permission.
Moreover, this episode has sparked fresh debate about the handling of peaceful protests and women’s rights events in Karachi. Many observers see the suspensions as a positive step toward accountability, though questions remain about the initial decision to arrest the activists.
