Appearing on the FHM Podcast with Adnan Faisal, Maria Wasti asserted that the slogan Mera Jism Meri Marzi is often misunderstood and deliberately made controversial. She explained that women use it to affirm their autonomy, but critics sensationalize the term.
“It’s not what people think. It’s about freedom of thought and expression,” Maria clarified.
She highlighted Pakistan’s glaring gender inequality, noting that women make up 55% of the population yet remain marginalized in their rights. “Women aren’t receiving their due rights, which is why they’re raising their voices,” she said.
Addressing the backlash over the word "body" in the slogan, Maria observed, “If the same word were said in English, it would sound acceptable. But people are disturbed by it in Urdu.” She compared the phrase to owning one's home or thoughts, emphasizing that autonomy over one’s body is just as valid.
