As the government launched an inquiry into the funding of Aurat Azadi March, the Opposition stands up for the movement. Aurat March met with Pakistan People Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto to address issues of safety and security.
In a Facebook post, the organizers revealed that they met with the Member of National Assembly (MNA) to discuss concerns regarding the safety of women, the transgender community, and non-binary people.
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Continuing on the legacy of Pakistan’s 1st female prime minister, PPP has always had a soft spot for women issues. The political party is responsible for passing the first anti-harassment law, Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace, Act 2010.
PPP even included gender equality in its manifesto. Even this year Bilawal Bhutto lauded the march saying;
“So inspirational to see the women of Pakistan organize, March & demand their rights. Proud of the young women, leading the next generation, towards a more equal future for all. #AuratMarch2021“
The organizers also put forward demands for improvement in legislation and implementation regarding the same.
“We look forward to working with Pakistan’s political parties and lawmakers in our struggle to push for a more equal society for all.”
PPP Standing Up For The Neglected
Pakistan’s oldest political party right now, PPP seems to have a knack for standing up for factions being ignored by the government, such as women and students. Following the nationwide ban on student unions, PPP tabled a resolution restoring the bodies in Sindh.
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Now PPP is addressing issues of safety and security, a basic right in a welfare state, with Aurat March organizers.
Meanwhile, the government of Pakistan has launched a probe into ‘objectionable activities’ at the ‘Aurat March’ based on social media reports.
عورت مارچ کے موقع پر بینرز اور گستاخانہ نعروں کی تحقیقات کی جا رہی ہیں@MORAisbOfficial pic.twitter.com/KjrqFAIFId
— PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) March 14, 2021
According to national media outlets, the government will also look into all elements responsible for photoshopped banners and doctored videos shared on social media.
