Protesters rally in Islamabad, call for justice, reforms, and an end to gender-based violence
Yasmeen Sabir
Islamabad:Outrage erupted in the capital as Aurat March Islamabad held a powerful protest outside the Islamabad Press Club on Wednesday, demanding justice for Sana Yousaf — a young woman brutally murdered for rejecting a marriage proposal.
The protest, attended by women’s rights activists and supporters, echoed with chants against patriarchal violence and impunity. Protesters held placards and shouted slogans condemning the killing, which they said symbolized the deep-rooted entitlement and systemic violence women face in Pakistan.
Sana was murdered by Umer Hayat, who allegedly couldn’t accept her refusal. Her death has reignited calls for immediate and meaningful action from the government.
In a strongly worded statement, Aurat March Islamabad issued a list of demands to the state that a swift and fair investigation into Sana’s murder, including conviction of all involved. The group also urged authorities to crack down on online glorification of such crimes.
Protestors urged government that the state must invest in awareness campaigns and education for boys to respect consent and individual autonomy from an early age.
More women should be placed in law enforcement and justice institutions, with the aim of equal gender representation.
Aurat March asked for mandatory gender training for police, prosecutors, and judges to ensure proper handling of gender-based violence cases.
Amend the existing electronic crimes legislation to explicitly criminalize the glorification of gender-based violence on digital platforms.
“We stand in solidarity with Sana’s family and loved ones,” the statement read. “We demand that the state take real, concrete steps to ensure such tragedies are never repeated.”
The protestors urged the government to stop paying lip service and instead “walk the talk” in protecting women’s rights and lives.
