Aurat March and Pakistani Society
From the struggle of suffragettes until now, the feminist ideology and movements are penetrating Pakistani society, aiming to empower women in every aspect of life. Once dominated by patriarchy, these ideas are now prevailing in a patriarchal society with zeal and zest. However, there are religious institutions and many individuals in this society who always associate the feminist ideology with vulgarity and a Western agenda, aiming to devastate Islamic society. Even in the 21st century, if people associate feminism with propaganda or vulgarity, it indicates a lack of understanding of the true essence and objectives of feminism.
Feminist movements are not eroding our society but providing a pragmatic and clear path to rectify the past mistakes of Pakistani patriarchal society. Those who perceive feminism as a threat to society often overlook the progress it has brought. Due to the struggle of feminists, the disparities between men and women have been rectified and removed. The development of Pakistani society, as reflected in gender gap index reports from previous years, shows progress in the status of women beyond their domestic roles.
Previously, women’s lives revolved around the four walls of their homes. However, with increased awareness through feminist movements, women at home are now eager to pursue education and independent lives. Comparing today’s Pakistan with decades ago, it’s evident that women’s status and participation in various sectors are escalating, not degrading.
Feminism is the only ideology with the potential to eradicate the miserable conditions still prevalent in both metropolitan and rural areas of Pakistan. It is the responsibility of feminists in urban areas to spread the ideology to remote regions. Furthermore, it is the duty of media outlets and every educated person in our society to debunk deliberate associations with feminism aimed at discrediting it and diverting women from their rightful path of struggle.
