A journalist by profession. Also a member of Bargaad’s steering committee on education for minorities and was regional gate keeper of Punjab in Network of Women for Journalists for Digital Rights Foundation. Activist for Digital, Minorities, Animals and Transgender Rights. I write on issues related to these matters. Ive traveled and spent time abroad and now residing in Lahore trying to make a difference in the life of marginalised communities.
Latest posts by R Umaima Ahmed
Smog chokes Pakistan's Punjab province as AQI soars to 1,900 in Lahore and 2,000 in Multan
With smog intensity escalating in Lahore at the end of October, affecting its 13 million residents, the Punjab government imposed a “green lockdown” and set up a “smog war room.”
Hundreds succumb to extreme temperatures as severe heatwave engulfs Pakistan
This year, Pakistan experienced abnormal pre-monsoon weather and an unprecedented heatwave that killed hundreds. The intense heat, particularly in Karachi and nearby regions, impacted healthcare and emergency services significantly.
Quetta Tea? Yes please!
In the past few years, Quetta tea stalls have sprouted across urban centers in Pakistan, attracting people of all ages to enjoy a cuppa at any time of the day.
The latest defamation bill further tightens restrictions on free speech in Pakistan
The Punjab Assembly recently passed the Defamation Bill 2024, which aims at curbing the spread of fake news across print, electronic, and social media platforms against government officials and institutions.
Women march for Palestine and against patriarchy in Pakistan
Women in Pakistan's major cities, such as Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, and Multan, rallied on International Women’s Day, demanding gender equality, justice, and safety, challenging patriarchal norms for the seventh consecutive year.
Silenced voices: The X and VPN ban after Pakistan’s elections
During the political uncertainty following the elections, the voices of Pakistani citizens have been stifled through Twitter and VPN bans.
Christian community comes under attack in Pakistan once again
On 16th August, over 19 churches and 80 Christian homes were vandalised by an angry mob reacting to an alleged incident of blasphemy in Jaranwala, a town in Faisalabad, Punjab province.
Ahead of election, Pakistan introduces new laws to stifle dissent
On August 9, 2023, the Pakistan National Assembly was dissolved to pave way for the upcoming election and dozens of bills were hurriedly passed that limit civil liberties and stifle dissent.
Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan arrested once again ahead of elections
"Another former prime minister convicted and disqualified from running for office in Pakistan. A sad reflection of lack of full democracy."
Heavy rains return to Pakistan, raising concerns about flood preparedness
Dozens of people had been killed in different parts of Pakistan due to rain and floods in the last week of June there are alerts of more rain in July.
Women marched in Pakistan despite resistance from authorities and religious groups
Despite encountering some obstacles, women in Pakistan were ultimately able to get permission and come out in large numbers on March 8th for "Aurat March", albeit with certain conditions attached.
Pakistan suffers widespread power outages amidst financial crisis
In January, Pakistan suffered a major power breakdown, plunging major cities into darkness and impacting millions of people. The disaster occurred amidst a rolling blackout meant to save costs.
Pakistani journalist's murder in Kenya may not be a case of mistaken identity
Pakistani journalist and anchorperson Arshad Sharif was shot and killed by Kenyan police in a case of "mistaken identity". However, in both countries, people are questioning the official narrative.
YouTube is temporarily blocked during former PM's political rally in Pakistan
After blocking Khan's speeches from satellite TV, the government seems to be trying to stop his campaigning from being heard online as well.
Pakistan drops 12 points on World Press Freedom Index 2022
A report by Pakistani rights organization Freedom Network reveals that journalists in Pakistan were subjected to violence, legal cases, abductions, detentions and threats last year, mostly from the state actors.
Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan ousted by a no-confidence vote in parliament following a court battle
After much drama, Imran Khan was removed as Prime Minister of Pakistan after he lost a no-confidence motion on April 9, 2022.
Heavy snowfall kills tourists at a hill station in Pakistan
At least 23 people, including women and children have died in cars that were stranded due to heavy snowfall in the Murree hill station area near the capital of Pakistan.
As India grapples with COVID-19, Pakistan extends support, prayers
India's dire COVID-19 situation drew solidarity and support from Pakistan, its neighbour and longtime arch foe, as nations come closer together by the pandemic.
‘Aurat March’ organizers face intimidation and threats of prosecution in Pakistan
The organizers of this year's Aurat March (Women's March) in Pakistan faced disinformation campaigns, threats from Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and were even accused of blasphemy.
Pakistan bans TikTok for the second time
TikTok was blocked in Pakistan for 10 days in October 2020. Access was restored after the app's parent company ByteDance assured authorities it would bolster moderation.
‘Aurat March’ 2021 presents feminist healthcare manifesto in Pakistan
Saying that COVID-19 enabled a "Pandemic of Patriarchy," the marchers demanded the government increase the health budget to 5 per cent of GDP so that women may get better healthcare.
