Mera Jism Meri Marzi & The Fear of Women’s Freedom

Why does a simple demand for women’s rights ignite outrage in Pakistan and India? Why is “Mera Jism Meri Marzi” seen as a Western conspiracy rather than a fundamental right? In this special episode on International Women’s Day, Unraveled with Marvi Sirmed, brings you a bold, unfiltered conversation with veteran feminist and former Chairperson of Pakistan’s National Commission on the Status of Women, Khawar Mumtaz. Mumtaz explains why do men in Pakistan & India panic at women demanding control over their own bodies and why gender-based violence including horrific crimes like honor killings, domestic violence, and rapes continue despite legal reforms. She also highlights how women are sidelined even when they enter Parliament and therefore why legal reforms aren’t enough, since culture, patriarchy, and power structures continue to block true gender justice.