Pakistan releases women prisoners

Hudood laws can punish women for extra-marital sex

Pakistan's President, Pervez Musharraf, has released more than 1,000 female prisoners on bail as parts of steps to improve justice for women.

He had already asked for an amendment to Islamic laws known as the "Hudood Ordinance", widely criticised for discriminating against women.

The Hudood Ordinance was introduced by military ruler Gen Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq in the 1980s.

Some religious parties and scholars strongly oppose the move.

Activists have long demanded that the laws be repealed and there has been growing public debate on the topic.

The laws say, for instance, that a woman has to prove she was raped, and if she cannot, she is charged with adultery - which is an offence.

President Musharraf has now asked an Islamic council to review the Hudood laws and propose amendments.

'Man-made' law

One of his ministers has openly said that the Hudood Ordinance is a man-made law not a divine one, the BBC's Barbara Plett in Islamabad reports.

But there is strong opposition to the move.

Some religious parties and scholars have vowed to defend the laws, saying they are based on teachings from the Koran and cannot be revoked.

Friday's ruling applies to around 1,300 women.

Only those women facing charges of murder and terrorism are excluded.

Officials said removing the women from prison would help restore their honour in this conservative religious culture.

The government has promised to give them legal aid and protection or shelter if they need it.