Asma Jahangir

We are so resilient as a people. I have so much respect for their dignity and courage. I hope the world sees this side of Pakistan, one where professionals want a democracy. The spirit of our intelligentsia cannot be broken. ”

We want a country which is not isolated and where democracy rules. ”

I have no illusions about our elected politicians. Pakistani democracy is anything but perfect. ”

However flawed democracy is, it is still the only answer. ”

General Zia-ul-Haq, a dictator and unscrupulous political actor, used Islam as a pretext for waging war in Afghanistan and adopting an aggressive stance towards India. By advancing a more orthodox version of Islam, he was able to hold on to a repressive regime and quell any opposition. ”

I had been very impressed with the courts we visited to see my father. The judges wearing wigs, the lawyers, the legal arguments - it was all exciting stuff for a kid. ”

The state has not only the obligation to stay neutral in matters of religion but also to ensure that freedom of thought and conscience of all individuals is protected. ”

Divorce is the cheapest thing in Pakistan. About 30 cents. Cheaper than fish and chips. I've had clients married to very rich men for 40 years, then turned out on the road with nothing. ”

Attempts are being made to turn Pakistan into a security state. If they succeed they should better rename it 'ISIstan.' ”

Look at the world, all the suffering... Being under house arrest is the least I can sacrifice. ”