“A blind girl was gang-raped but was charged under the Hudood laws for zina because she was unable to identify her rapists. We launched a vigorous campaign for her, ultimately forcing the Federal Shariat Court to back down. We could not get the Hudood laws repealed in toto but succeeded in making the proposed Law of Evidence less forceful.

“After Zia’s dictatorial regime, the situation improved but having an egalitarian society is a distant dream yet. With the help and support of the marginalised segment of the society, we will continue pressing for women’s equality, eradication of discriminatory laws against women, minorities and oppressed Pakistanis, supporting democracy and advocating for more representation of women in parliament, negating the growing influence of religious extremism, intolerance and hatred.

“Perseverance is essential for success and persevering we are despite all odds.”