Zoha Tauqeer speaks out against alleged discrimination of autistic children
Pakistani actress Zoha Tauqeer has joined the growing online outcry over the alleged discrimination against autistic children at a Lahore amusement facility, urging society to embrace inclusion and ensure that every child is treated equally.
Taking to her Instagram Stories, the actress reshared posts highlighting a controversy surrounding Fun Factory, an indoor amusement park located inside Emporium Mall, Lahore, which has come under intense criticism after allegedly denying entry to two autistic children due to a reported policy restricting access for neurodivergent and special needs children.
Expressing her disappointment, Zoha shared a heartfelt message advocating acceptance and equal opportunities for all children.
"Stop villainising children. Stop treating children differently. Stop the hate for neurodivergent individuals. Every child deserves to play."
She further emphasized her stance by writing:
"Every child deserves to play. Every child deserves to belong."
Zoha's post forms part of a wider social media campaign launched by citizens, parents, and consumer advocacy platforms, including Voice of Customer, calling for greater inclusion of neurodivergent children in public recreational spaces.
The online movement argues that excluding autistic and special needs children from play areas constitutes discrimination rather than a legitimate safety policy.
Activists and supporters have also urged families to boycott the facility until inclusive policies are introduced, while demanding systemic reforms to ensure equal access for all children regardless of their neurological differences.
The incident has sparked widespread debate across social media, with thousands of users voicing solidarity with autistic children and their families, insisting that public spaces should promote inclusion, empathy, and equal opportunities instead of exclusion.