Women’s groups welcome ceasefire

LAHORE:Women’s groups from India and Pakistan have welcomed ceasefire between the two nations, calling it a vital first step toward lasting peace and justice.

In a joint statement endorsed by over 70 activists and major women’s groups, they condemned the Pahalgam attack. The signatories warned against communal exploitation of the tragedy, particularly criticising the vilification of Himanshi Narwal, widow of a victim, who had appealed for peace.

They condemned India's operation named 'Sindoor' as a patriarchal gesture that weaponised women's pain. The women denounced recent escalations, including air and drone strikes, the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, and the humanitarian fallout at the Attari-Wagah border where women were separated from their children due to cancelled visas.

Calling for restraint, accountability, and dialogue, the statement demanded a joint investigation into the Pahalgam attack, restoration of diplomatic channels, and a just resolution of the Kashmir conflict. They emphasised that war deepens inequalities and primarily harms women, children, and marginalised communities.