Three journalists detained during Aurat March in Islamabad

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 9 March 2026 |  JP Staff Report

Police in Islamabad detained dozens during the Aurat March and briefly arrested three journalists, Sehrish Qureshi, Farhat Fatima and Ismat Jabeen, who were later released. Authorities said Section 144 was in force in parts of the city, banning gatherings.

Summary

ISLAMABAD — Police in Pakistan’s capital detained dozens of participants during the Aurat March after authorities enforced Section 144, a colonial-era public order law that restricts public gatherings. Among those briefly taken into custody were journalists Sehrish Qureshi, Farhat Fatima, and Ismat Jabeen, who were later released.

The detentions occurred as activists attempted to hold the annual women’s rights demonstration in Islamabad. Police said the action was taken because Section 144 had been imposed in parts of the city, making public assemblies illegal without prior authorization.

Authorities cite security restrictions

Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure empowers local authorities to prohibit public gatherings if they believe such assemblies could threaten public safety or disrupt public order. Officials frequently invoke the measure during political protests, religious gatherings, or periods of heightened security in Pakistan’s major cities.

Local authorities have previously justified the use of Section 144 in Islamabad by citing security concerns tied to the presence of government institutions, foreign missions, and sensitive installations in the capital. The law authorizes police to disperse crowds and detain individuals participating in unlawful assemblies.

Rights groups challenge use of public order laws

Civil society groups and rights advocates have repeatedly criticized the use of Section 144 to prevent peaceful demonstrations. They argue that the provision, originally introduced under British colonial rule, is often used to curb dissent rather than address genuine security threats.

Activists involved with Aurat March say the demonstration is an annual event highlighting gender equality, workplace rights, and violence against women. In previous years, the march has faced administrative hurdles, security restrictions, and legal challenges in several Pakistani cities.

Impact on journalists covering protests

The brief detention of journalists during the Islamabad crackdown has raised concerns within media circles about the safety of reporters covering demonstrations. Journalists often attend protests to document events and report on public interest issues, but they can be caught up in police operations when authorities disperse crowds.

Media organizations in Pakistan have previously urged authorities to ensure that reporters covering protests are not detained or obstructed while performing their professional duties.

WHY THIS MATTERS: The incident highlights the risks journalists face when covering protests and public demonstrations in Pakistan. Frequent use of Section 144 can complicate reporting on civic activism, forcing journalists to navigate legal restrictions while documenting events of public interest.

ATTRIBUTION: Reporting by JournalismPakistan, based on publicly available statements and verified accounts from participants released March 9, 2026.

PHOTO: Courtesy of Adnan Rehmat via Facebook