NCSW condemns arrest of women activists and Journalists on duty ahead of Aurat March Rally

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 13th Mar, 2026) The National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) has strongly condemned the reported inhumane and indecent treatment of women activists and the arrest of journalists on duty by police in Islamabad ahead of a rally organised under the banner of Aurat March to mark International Women’s Day.

In a press statement issued from Islamabad, the Commission said it had taken serious notice of reports that several women activists and leaders were detained by the Islamabad Police near Super Market in Sector F-6 while they were gathering to proceed towards the National Press Club to participate in a peaceful rally.

According to reports, authorities cited the enforcement of Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code and the absence of a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the gathering as the basis for declaring the assembly unlawful and carrying out the arrests.

The Commission strongly condemned what it described as “inhumane and indecent treatment” reportedly meted out to women leaders and activists who have long struggled for the advancement of women’s rights in Pakistan. It stated that these individuals have played a vital role in promoting justice, equality, and dignity for women, and subjecting them to degrading or disrespectful treatment is deeply concerning and unacceptable.

NCSW emphasised that the women activists were exercising their fundamental rights to peaceful expression and assembly.

The Commission stated that they should not have been arrested for participating in a peaceful civic activity. It further noted that even in situations where authorities deem it necessary to take individuals into custody, the law requires that they be treated with dignity, respect, and in accordance with established legal safeguards and human rights standards.

On this occasion, the Chairperson of NCSW also strongly condemned the arrest of three journalists on duty, who were reportedly detained while performing their professional responsibilities and covering the incident. She stressed that journalists carrying out their duties must be allowed to work freely without intimidation or interference, as any such action undermines press freedom and the public’s right to information.

The Commission urged the relevant authorities to ensure that all detained women are treated humanely, provided safe custodial conditions, and granted full access to due process, legal counsel, and communication with their families.

Reaffirming its mandate as the national statutory body responsible for safeguarding women’s rights, NCSW stated that it will continue to monitor the situation closely and remains committed to ensuring that the dignity, safety, and fundamental rights of all women in Pakistan are upheld at all times.

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