Islamabad witnessed a tense situation on March 8, 2026, when police detained at least 25 women’s rights activists who had gathered to mark International Women’s Day. The group, associated with the Aurat March, had assembled at Super Market in Sector F-6 for a peaceful rally. However, authorities intervened, citing a violation of Section 144, which restricts gatherings of more than four people in the federal capital.
The detained activists, including well-known figures such as Dr Farzana Bari, were taken to the Women Police Station in G-7 Markaz. According to law enforcement officials, the arrests were necessary to maintain public order, as the gathering was deemed an unauthorized assembly under the standing administrative orders.
Organizers of the Aurat March Islamabad documented the incident on their official social media platforms, sharing videos that showed activists being escorted into police vehicles. In their statement, they emphasized that the protest was intended to be peaceful, and accused authorities of suppressing their right to freedom of expression. They further alleged that family members and legal representatives were being denied access to those in custody.
Human rights organizations have expressed concern over the detentions, calling for the immediate release of the activists. They argue that such actions undermine democratic values and the right to peaceful protest, especially on a day meant to highlight gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Police officials clarified that no First Information Report (FIR) had been registered yet, and suggested that the detained women might be released later. The incident has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the balance between security measures and the protection of civil liberties in Pakistan’s capital.
