Former Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry has ignited controversy on social media by opposing initiatives that encourage women to ride motorcycles. Responding to a Punjabi report highlighting the growing number of women using scooters and participating in rallies to promote female mobility, Chaudhry labeled women as “horrible” drivers.
On X, he stated that most women riders are poor drivers and should not be encouraged to use bikes, warning that such campaigns endanger their lives as well as those of others. This statement quickly provoked a strong backlash online.
Notably, Maleeka Bokhari, a former party colleague, condemned Chaudhry’s remarks as “absurd” and “misogynistic.” Meanwhile, many users argued that the focus should be on improving road safety through proper driving education and training rather than discouraging women from riding motorcycles.
One commenter urged people to review statistics showing women’s safety records, while others emphasized that women tend to be cautious drivers who maintain their lanes diligently. Journalist Alia Chughtai also called on Chaudhry to “do better.” Several users suggested that if Chaudhry doubts women’s driving abilities, he should advocate for enhanced training programs instead of telling them to avoid the roads altogether.
In a significant development, these remarks have reignited criticism of Chaudhry’s previous controversial statements about women. In June, he questioned why women choose to become police officers, dismissing many as ineffective and describing policing as a poor career choice for women.
Leave an opinion