The Sindh government has officially granted permission for the annual Aurat March rally in Karachi, allowing organizers to hold the event on Sunday under 28 specific conditions related to security, speeches, slogans, and overall conduct.
According to an official no-objection certificate (NOC), the rally will take place at Sea View from 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm. The permission was issued by Karachi South Deputy Commissioner Javed Nabi Khoso on May 8.
The approval comes after Aurat March organizers raised concerns over delays in receiving official permission and claimed that some activists had briefly been detained before a planned press conference earlier this week.
Under the conditions outlined in the NOC, participants and organizers have been barred from displaying or chanting anti-state and anti-religion slogans. Authorities also prohibited speeches, placards, banners, or posters containing hateful, provocative, unethical, or anti-social content.
The document further stated that no banned or proscribed groups would be allowed to participate in or support the rally. It specifically mentioned organizations including the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) and Jeay Sindh Qaumi Mahaz (JQSM).
In addition, organizers were instructed not to allow promotion related to the LGBTQ community or clothing considered objectionable during the event.
The NOC also restricted speeches against the ideology of Pakistan, national institutions, state policies, or the armed forces. Authorities warned against any activity that could promote sectarianism, hatred, or extremism.
Organizers have been directed to remain in close coordination with police and district administration officials to ensure peaceful conduct throughout the Aurat March. They are also responsible for managing internal security arrangements and preventing traffic disruptions in surrounding areas.
Security measures include walkthrough gates, physical searches, metal detectors, and explosive detection checks for participants. The Bomb Disposal Squad has also been instructed to inspect the venue before the rally begins.
Parking facilities must be established at least 200 yards away from the main venue, with strict vehicle checking procedures in place.
Authorities stated that organizers would be held fully responsible for any security or law and order issues during the Aurat March, while reserving the right to change the venue or conclude the event early if necessary.
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