Call for release of women of opposition parties

Demand equal opportunities in education and employment for women

KARACHI:

Prominent Sindhi intellectuals, activists, and professionals voiced strong concern over social injustices faced by women, urging an end to wars in Iran and Palestine and calling for the release of detained Pakistani women leaders of the opposition parties. They demanded equal opportunities in education and employment for women and the elimination of double standards entrenched in society.

The demands were raised at a seminar organised by the Sindh Suhai Organisation at Karachi Press Club on International Women's Day. Addressing the gathering, renowned dancer and activist Sheema Kermani dedicated the day to mothers in Iran and Palestine who are forced to bury their children amid ongoing conflicts. She questioned Pakistan's rulers over the arrests of women activists, asking how long women must endure oppression. "Wherever wars erupt-Afghanistan, Iran, Palestine, Gaza-the heaviest burden falls on women. If women were entrusted with governance, the world could become a bouquet of peace and love," she said.

Former federal minister Marvi Memon recalled her hunger strike outside Karachi Press Club 16 years ago, lamenting that rulers remain indifferent to the plight of the oppressed. Sindh Suhai Chairperson Dr. Ayesha condemned violence against women in Islamabad, stressing that women can carve their own paths if barriers are removed. "The world celebrates women today, but we are still compelled to protest," she remarked.

Professor Inam Shaikh emphasized that social change must begin at home, calling for a revival of movements like the historic Sindhiyani Tehreek to organize women for their rights. Dr. Sorath Sindhu highlighted the role of youth, insisting that restoration of student unions is essential for meaningful activism. She added that women's economic empowerment is a prerequisite for social progress.

SP Sajawal Aleena Rajpar shared her personal journey, recalling the skepticism her family faced when she joined the police force. "My mother stood by me, and today I serve as an SP. We must break restrictive traditions and challenge stereotypes," she said. Other speakers, including Sultana Waqasi, Yasmeen Chandio, Latif Ibrahim, Junaid Ansari, Shehzadi Rai, Muneeza Ahmed, Amara Paras Dayo, and Najma Maheshwari, also addressed the gathering.