Maria Imran 
The National Women’s Day on February 12 is celebrated in memory of the brave women who demonstrated in Lahore in 1983 against the discriminatory law of evidence by General Zia-ul-Haq. The proposed legislation was to diminish the legal worthiness of the testimony of a woman to half that of a male, which caused a furore among activists. The women in Women Action Forum (WAF) and other organisations held a bold demonstration, marching outside the Lahore High Court towards equality.
The demonstration was peaceful, but the tear gas, baton charges, and arrests were used. Although the crackdown was inhumane in nature, the protest marked a turning point in the women’s rights movement in Pakistan.
A Symbol of Resistance and Equality
Nowadays, the National Women’s Day on February 12 is the embodiment of the power against injustice and authoritarian policy. It is a reminder of what women have sacrificed to fight against oppressive laws and to have equal status in the law.
In the fall of every year, activists, organisations, and citizens observe the National Women’s Day on February 12 to celebrate the progress made and keep fighting the gender equality fight, legal protection, and empowerment in Pakistan.
FAQs
1. Why is February 12 important in Pakistan?
It signifies the 1983 female demonstration in Lahore against the law against discrimination.
2. Who organised the 1983 protest?
The head of the march was the Women Action Forum (WAF) and other activists.
3. What is the meaning of the day now?
It is an expression of resistance, equality, and struggle to obtain women’s rights.
