By Pride Pakistan
In recent months, Pakistan has witnessed a troubling surge in police crackdowns on private gatherings labeled as “vulgar parties.” These raids often targeting LGBTQI+ individuals and queer participants, are carried out under Sections 292, 292-A, and 294 of the Pakistan Penal Code, alongside Section 6 of the Sound System Act. While these laws ostensibly aim to curb public obscenity and noise pollution, they are increasingly weaponized against marginalized communities, especially gay community members.
The Reality Behind the Headlines
Lahore Viral Party Case (August 2025)
A private gathering in Lahore went viral after fashion designer Maria B posted videos online, accusing attendees, many of whom were queer “immoral conduct.” Nearly 60 individuals were detained under obscenity and sound system laws. The court later dismissed the case due to lack of evidence and procedural violations, but the damage was already done, reputations tarnished, trauma inflicted, and fear instilled for all the queer and gay gatherings across Pakistan.
Okara Mehndi Function Raid (2020)
A queer person dancing at a wedding event was arrested along with others for violating sound system laws. The police registered cases against 20 individuals, citing “vulgarity” and “public nuisance.”
Jaranwala Clash & SOP Reform (2024)
A dance party involving transgender persons turned violent when police attempted a raid. The clash led to injuries and arrests, prompting Punjab Police to issue new SOPs barring male officers from frisking transgender individuals.
Karachi DHA Riots (2019)
Twenty-one transgender persons were arrested for rioting and alleged drug use after a complaint about “streetwalking.” The incident escalated into vandalism and further arrests.
The Unspoken Truth: Gay Parties and Silent Raids
While transgender individuals often bear the brunt of publicized raids, gay men and queer gatherings are also frequently targeted, just less visibly. These events, often held discreetly in private homes or rented venues, are raided under similar obscenity and sound system laws. Yet, due to the deep taboo surrounding homosexuality, these cases rarely make it to social media or news outlets.
Victims are silenced by shame, fear of outing, and lack of legal recourse. Many are denied access to lawyers, and few dare to challenge the charges in court. The absence of public support and the risk of being disowned by families or employers forces most to quietly endure the trauma. Pride Pakistan have been reported of such hundreds of incidents across Pakistan where gay gathering were raided by police.
Legal Landscape: No Protection, No Counsel
Pakistan’s legal system offers no explicit protection for LGBTQI individuals. In fact, vague terms like “obscenity” and “immoral conduct” are routinely used to criminalize queer existence. Once arrested, victims face:
- No legal safeguards against discrimination
- No access to LGBTQI-friendly lawyers
- No privacy in police custody
- No media advocacy, as most outlets avoid covering queer-related arrests
A Message to Our Community: Stay Safe and be Proud of your Identity
We understand the need to celebrate, connect, and express your identity. But in today’s climate, caution is not cowardice, it’s survival. If you’re planning a gathering:
✅ Safety Checklist
- Keep gatherings small and discreet
- Avoid loud music or public visibility
- Do not post videos or photos online
- Vet your guest list carefully
- Have emergency contacts and legal aid numbers ready
- Know your rights, but also know the risks
What Pride Pakistan Is Doing
At Pride Pakistan, we are working to:
- Build a network of LGBTQI-friendly advocates
- Advocate for legal reform and anti-discrimination protections
- Provide emergency support for individuals facing police harassment
- Raise awareness through storytelling and documentation
If you or someone you know has been affected by such incidents, please reach out to us confidentially or by filling this form. You are not alone.
https://forms.gle/Cwe36ZQiidC4aKkY9
🌈 Stay Safe and be proud of your identity.
Pride Pakistan
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