Former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry is facing criticism on social media after saying that “most of the girls are horrible drivers” while commenting on women increasingly using scooters in Punjab.
Chaudhry made the remarks while responding to a post by BBC News Punjabi about women in Punjab taking up scooter riding as a means of independent transportation. The report highlighted women organising scooter rallies in different cities to promote mobility and encourage more women to ride.
In his response, Chaudhry argued that encouraging women to drive themselves around could put their lives and the lives of others at risk.
Most of the girls are horrible drivers and must not be encouraged to use bikes!! This campaign is akin putting their and others lives in danger…. https://t.co/d2YXoigf7g
— Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) September 22, 2026
His comments quickly drew reactions on X, with several users questioning the basis for his claim about women’s driving abilities.
Some users asked whether he had any data to support the statement, while others questioned why the focus was being placed on women rather than on broader road-safety problems in Pakistan.
Others pointed to the importance of independent mobility for women, particularly in a country where access to safe and affordable transportation can be a challenge.
Some users also argued that if inexperienced driving was the concern, better driving education and road-safety training would be a more appropriate response than discouraging women from riding scooters.
Fawad Chaudhry’s earlier remarks about women
The latest controversy comes months after Chaudhry faced criticism over comments concerning women joining the police force.
In June, he reportedly argued that women should not join the police, prompting criticism from social media users and women’s rights advocates.
His latest comments have once again triggered a debate about women’s mobility, road safety and gender stereotypes in Pakistan.
Women increasingly turn to scooters
The discussion comes as more Pakistani women are taking up scooter riding as a practical way to commute independently.
Women participating in scooter rallies have said that riding gives them greater freedom to travel for work, education and other daily activities without having to depend on family members or public transport.
However, women riders also face challenges on the roads, including harassment, unwanted attention and unsafe driving by other motorists.
The debate following Chaudhry’s comments has therefore shifted beyond his statement itself, with social media users discussing whether Pakistan needs greater restrictions on women drivers or better road-safety education and enforcement for all motorists.
