Pakistan’s worsening record on civil liberties has once again come under the spotlight after police detained prominent women’s rights activist Sheema Kermani along with several Aurat March organisers during a demonstration demanding protection of constitutional freedoms.

The detentions, which took place during a peaceful gathering in Karachi, triggered outrage among rights groups and activists who accused Pakistani authorities of systematically silencing dissenting voices under the guise of maintaining public order.

Videos circulating on social media showed police personnel dragging protesters, including women activists, into police vans as demonstrators chanted slogans demanding freedom of expression and equal rights. Eyewitnesses claimed the protest was largely peaceful before security forces intervened.

Sheema Kermani, one of Pakistan’s most recognised feminist activists and founder of Tehrik-e-Niswan, reportedly condemned the crackdown before being taken into custody. Organisers alleged that authorities deliberately targeted Aurat March members to discourage future protests and intimidate civil society groups.

The Aurat March movement, which began as a campaign for women’s rights and protection against gender-based violence, has repeatedly faced hostility from conservative groups and state authorities in Pakistan. Over the years, organisers have reported threats, surveillance, online abuse and legal harassment.

Human rights campaigners say the latest detentions reflect a broader pattern of shrinking democratic space in Pakistan, where journalists, activists and opposition voices increasingly face intimidation, enforced disappearances and arbitrary arrests.

Critics argue that while Pakistan’s leadership frequently speaks about democracy and constitutional rights on international platforms, the treatment of peaceful protesters at home tells a different story. The crackdown has renewed concerns about the growing influence of hardline elements over public discourse and civic freedoms.

Several rights organisations demanded the immediate release of the detained activists and called on Pakistani authorities to uphold citizens’ right to peaceful assembly. Social media users also criticised the police action, with many accusing the government of using force to suppress even non-violent demonstrations.

Analysts say the episode further damages Pakistan’s global image at a time when the country is already facing criticism over press freedom, political repression and restrictions on civil society activism.

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