Do you think the argument in this article is valid or is it hyped and the real issue is not as serious as it is portrayed here?

Yeah, this is what happens in Pakistan. Girls are not given as much oppurtunities, as much boys are in our society. But, I believe, sometimes, it is sometimes for the security of them. There are certain limitiations, and girls should abide by them to have a good life. But, not allowing them to work at banks and schools which are far, plus imposing them to become a doctor at every cost is ridicolous, and it should be eliminated.
The only reason, why I wanted to be an engineer was, because I wanted to be different. All the kids of my age then, used to say " mai baray hokar doctor bano gee", and I decided, I will not become this doctor whatsoever. Anyways, the purpose of this story is that even now, it is parent's wish that their kids become doctors, but imposing it is not good. And what happens as a result is that, those kids sacrifice thier ambition, and in return do not become good doctors or even doctors at all. So, we should try to create awareness among the parents to let the kids chose thier profession themselves.

it is true.. poor ol girls have to bear the burden!
but the girls who do overcome these difficulties or those who dont have em to start with, are way better off then their male counterparts i think. you might have seen on a multinational company's website "Girls are encouraged to apply" and in their policy statements a contradiction is written "we are an equal oppertunity employer" :S

anyhow, in general the beti of hawa suffers in this mayhem. my sister wasnt allowed to take admission in a medical college in another city(she did manage to get it in the same city she lives though), same happened with me mom when she was young (her father didnt allow with that). and as far as boys are concerned, i am already abroad and my brother will soon be 400 km away from home for studies :D