Chapter 3 part 2

Kishwar Naheed: A Trailblazer in Literature and Governance

Kishwar Naheed is a prominent feminist poet recognized for her significant contributions to Urdu literature. Over her career, she has authored numerous poetry collections and autobiographical writings, demonstrating her deep engagement with the socio-political landscape of her time, particularly during the era of Ayub Khan's Basic Democracies in Pakistan. Naheed's literary accomplishments earned her an award from UNESCO for her extensive work in children's literature. Beyond her literary achievements, she served in the governmental bureaucracy, notably appointed as the head of the Pakistan National Council of the Arts by Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto in the 1990s, where she excelled in her role.

Early Life and Education

Born in British India, Kishwar was initially raised in a family where higher education was predominantly reserved for men. Her maternal grandfather was a high court lawyer and her family's expectations were heavily gendered. Kishwar's desire to pursue education beyond primary school was met with resistance, perceived as an embarrassment to her family. Nevertheless, she persisted, even going on a hunger strike to secure her admission to college after completing her matriculation. Kishwar earned a master's degree and participated actively in poetry competitions, often concealing her achievements from her family until they heard her reciting poetry on the radio.

Civil Service Career

As a young civil servant during Ayub Khan's regime, Kishwar conducted audits of the Basic Democracies, observing a lack of understanding among local officials about public financial management. She noted that many local elites mismanaged public funds, spending on personal luxuries instead of community development. In her reflections, Kishwar recognized a distinct lack of gender segregation amongst council members during that time, emphasizing the collaborative nature of political discussions between men and women, which starkly contrasts with contemporary political climates.

Contributions and Legacy

Naheed's political insights flourished alongside her literary career. She became known for her poetry that served as a critique of various authoritarian regimes. Despite the political misuse of Basic Democracy as merely a tool for social status reinforcement by some, others, including women councilors, emerged as dedicated community servants, focusing on children's education and development projects. Kishwar Naheed's life story is one of resilience and pioneering spirit, demonstrating her commitment to both literature and the empowerment of women in politics.

Begum Pasha Sufi: A Legacy in Women's Education

Begum Pasha Sufi is another exemplary figure who played a vital role in education during times of political turmoil. Born in Hyderabad Deccan, she exemplified leadership in women's education, being among the few Indian women educated in Europe during the 1930s. After returning to India, she dedicated her life to establishing girls' schools throughout Hyderabad. Despite the restrictive political environment of her time, she actively engaged in raising awareness for girls' education, contributing significantly to women's empowerment in education.

Move to Pakistan and Continued Advocacy

After Partition, Begum Sufi relocated to Pakistan in 1951, where she continued her campaign for education by joining the All Pakistan Women's Association (APWA) and facilitating the establishment of girl’s high schools in Sindh. Much like Kishwar Naheed, her career was marked by persistent advocacy for education, women’s rights, and public service, making her a key figure in the development of educational policies in Pakistan.

The Impact of Ayub Khan’s Basic Democracies

Ayub Khan's Basic Democracies system aimed to decentralize governance, yet it was seen as a means to reinforce elite power dynamics. While initially designed to integrate local governance, many officials misinterpreted their roles, often using funds for personal benefits rather than for community upliftment. This mismanagement highlighted the urgent need for better political training and accountability at all levels. Kishwar Naheed noticed that while men often occupied local positions due to social status, women filling these roles brought fresh perspectives and genuine commitment to community development.

Educational Initiatives Supported by Basic Democracy

Several community development initiatives, often supported by American aid, emerged under the Basic Democracy framework. These included vocational training programs and the distribution of resources to improve livelihoods among the underprivileged. Women were frequently engaged as facilitators in these initiatives, emphasizing their crucial role in local governance and community mobilization.

The Rise of Women in Local Politics

Through the Basic Democracies, women demonstrated their potential in leadership, shown by their active participation and advocacy in various community projects. Kishwar Naheed highlighted the absence of gender barriers in council discussions, showcasing a progressive attitude towards women in governance during that era. The narrative of proactive women participating in local governance under Ayub Khan's regime provides a roadmap for understanding the evolving role of women in Pakistan's political landscape.

Fatima Jinnah: A Symbol of Resistance Against Dictatorship

In the political context of the 1960s, Fatima Jinnah emerged as a powerful symbol of women's activism as she contested Ayub Khan in the presidential election. Supported by a coalition of political parties, her candidacy marked a significant moment in Pakistan's gender politics, challenging the established notions of women's political participation.

The Fatwa Against Women Leaders

Despite her popularity, Fatima Jinnah faced pushback from conservative elements, highlighted by the issuance of a fatwa stating that women could not hold the highest political offices. This backlash revealed the underlying patriarchal attitudes that continued to permeate Pakistani politics, even amidst growing calls for reform and representation.

Zaib-un-Nissa: The Pioneer of Women's Journalism

Zaib-un-Nissa Hamidullah stands tall as Pakistan's first woman columnist who not only contributed to journalism but also paved the way for subsequent generations of female media professionals. Her literary lineage and commitment to addressing women's issues set a precedent for bold women in journalism.

The Mirror and the Rise of Feminist Discourse

With the founding of her magazine, The Mirror, Zaib challenged not only political norms but also societal expectations of women. She addressed topical issues with courage and became a voice for many marginalized women, illuminating their struggles and aspirations in a predominantly male-dominated field. Her editorial work earned her widespread recognition and respect, yet she faced threats from the government for daring to critique the political establishment, which culminated in a significant legal battle.

Women’s Empowerment in the 1970s

The 1970s witnessed a surge in women's political activity with the lifting of martial law under Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. As women organized themselves for participation in governance, the era became significant for women’s movements, pushing for reforms and greater representation in politics. The new constitution promised equal rights but also faced challenges from conservative factions within society.

The Role of Women's Organizations

Organizations such as APWA and the United Front for Women's Rights became instrumental in advocating for women's issues. The 1973 Constitution allowed for reserved seats for women, albeit appointed not elected. Although their powers were limited, women made substantial strides in legislature by actively participating and lobbying for their rights.

Cultural and Social Changes

This period marked the emergence of women in various cultural spheres, from media to education. Women engaged in creative expressions across genres, affecting a paradigm shift in how women's roles were perceived in society. The influence of female writers, educators, and artists reshaped public perception of women's capabilities and contributions.

Summary

As women began claiming their space in public life, they demonstrated their resilience and determination to challenge patriarchal norms. Through literature, journalism, and active political engagement, Kishwar Naheed and her contemporaries contributed significantly to the socio-political landscape of Pakistan, setting a foundation for ongoing women's rights movements.