The Sindh government has authorized the organisers of the annual Aurat March in Karachi to conduct their rally on Sunday, imposing 28 specific conditions. These include limitations on slogans, speeches, and displays associated with banned organisations, as outlined in an official no-objection certificate issued on May 8.
The march is set to take place at Karachi’s Sea View area on Mother’s Day. This approval follows complaints from organisers about delays in receiving permission and reports of several activists being briefly detained prior to a planned press conference.
The notification, issued by Karachi South Deputy Commissioner Javed Nabi Khoso, permits the rally from 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm, contingent upon strict security and behavioural guidelines. It explicitly prohibits slogans, placards, and speeches that are deemed “anti-state,” “anti-religion,” or contain “hateful, provocative, unethical or anti-social content.”
Participation or endorsement by banned groups, specifically the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) and Jeay Sindh Qaumi Mahaz (JQSM), is strictly forbidden. Additionally, organisers must prevent any promotion of the LGBTQ community or the wearing of “objectionable clothing” during the event.
The conditions also bar speeches opposing the “ideology of Pakistan,” state policies, or the armed forces, and forbid any actions that might incite sectarian hatred or extremism. Organisers are required to work closely with police and district administration officials to ensure peaceful conduct, maintain internal security, and avoid traffic disruptions on main roads.
Security measures include mandatory walkthrough gates with physical searches using metal and explosive detectors. The Bomb Disposal Squad is tasked with sweeping the venue prior to the rally. Parking zones must be established at least 200 yards from the main site, with thorough vehicle inspections enforced.
The no-objection certificate holds organisers fully accountable for any law and order issues or security incidents during the event. Authorities also retain the right to alter the venue or curtail the rally if necessary.
The Aurat March, an annual demonstration advocating women’s rights across multiple Pakistani cities, has often faced criticism from conservative and religious factions over some of its slogans and demands. This year’s event proceeds under heightened scrutiny and stringent conditions.
