LAHORE: Pakistani authorities in the eastern city of Lahore have refused to give permission for a rally to mark International Women’s Day 2023, which regularly meets strong criticism in the country.
Marches have been held in major cities of the country since 2018 to bring attention to women’s rights.
Lahore city authorities cited the “controversial banners and cards” commonly displayed by the march participants and security concerns as reasons behind the refusal, which were cited in a notification to organizers of the march late Friday.
Religious groups commonly stage counter-protests dubbed “Haya (modesty)” march to call for preserving Islamic values.
Controversy of over Women’s Day march
Organizers of the Aurat March have frequently had to resort to legal action to counter the march.
The Aurat March rallies have caused controversy because of placards, and banners waved by participants that raise controversial subjects.
Organizers and participants of the march have been accused of promoting liberal, Western values and disrespecting cultural and religious sensitivities. – AFP
