Pakistan, Aug. 11 -- Religious leaders from various parties in Hyderabad have voiced strong opposition to a planned women's marathon set to mark Independence Day. Speaking at a joint press conference at the Hyderabad Press Club, they urged the Sindh government and district administration to immediately withdraw the decision. The leaders warned that if the event is not cancelled, they would go to any extent to stop it. They stressed that such public gatherings of women are not in line with Islamic teachings and violate principles of modesty. The call for cancellation has stirred debate over the balance between cultural values and public events.

The press conference was addressed by prominent figures, including Jamaat-e-Islami district chi...