A/HRC/8/42 Page 16 them and improved communication between government and the NGO sector. Pakistan then listed the terms of reference or mandate of this Commission and stated that it helped to eradicate some areas of tension between NGOs, women’s organisations and the government. 96. Pakistan stated that it has an independent, vibrant media. Private as well as public TV/Radio channels (96 TV and 94 Radio) can say whatever they want. These channels broadcast about human rights issues and political issues, and actively engage Pakistani citizens who want to hear and take part in politics and political discussions. Pakistan then stated its intention to incorporate the ICESCR into domestic law and implement it, on priority. 97. Regarding Madrassa reforms Pakistan stated that there are 13,000-15,000 madrassas in the country, and it was wrong that this sector was ignored. The government is now very focused on them, the curriculum has been updated, and math, science, economics and history have been introduced. Pakistan indicated its hope that these reforms would have a positive impact on the students. 98. Pakistan then stated that there is a misconception that human rights defenders are being obstructed or not allowed to move freely. There are 5,000 human rights NGOs working in the country, many of which are very effective. Neither the government nor any other agency restricts their work. They can go wherever they like, check archives, and examine politics, without restriction. They submit their independent reports, and the government has not objected to such reports. 99. Pakistan stated that it is a Muslim country and does not have the concept of Dalit or Scheduled. Pakistan noted that it is free from such kind of prejudices, and the existing norms do not contain discrimination on the basis of caste or creed. 100. In addressing the question of incitement to hatred that reportedly goes on in some mosques, Pakistan stated that these are problems and various governments have tried their best to stop or control them. Religious sentiments run high in Pakistan, and at times, it is difficult to reason. Pakistan indicated its full commitment to reduce and eliminate this matter, which cannot be done with legislation alone, but requires interaction and dialogue, and is committed to doing so. 101. Pakistan stated its indebtedness to NGOs which have allowed governments to become conscious of the issue of honour killings, and have passed legislation in this regard. The issue now is how such legislation will be implemented and breakaway from a patriarchal system that has been in place for a long time. It will take some time. Recognising the issue of female prisoners, Pakistan committed itself to address the issue on priority. It again committed itself to the concept and implementation of the independence of judiciary and to settle the issue of judges as soon as possible. 102. The representative stated that all persons who were evicted from the Lyari expressway have been amply and appropriately compensated. She added that one of the highlights of the programme of building 1 million houses is that the female members of the household will be given ownership of the house, and these homes will be given to those in low income group or those who cannot make it on their own. Interest free loans will also be provided by the government and the purpose is not only to provide shelter and empower women but also to trigger the economy, since housing involves 24 industries. 103. The Permanent Representative of Pakistan added that Pakistan realises the existing challenges which it will try to meet, with domestic resources as well as with the help of the international community. It is in a state of transition; it has recently moved towards full democracy; the writ of the rule of law is being restored and human rights have been mainstreamed. The role of its vibrant civil society and vigilant and interactive media was highlighted in this regard. Pakistan indicated its appreciation for the meeting’s keen interest in the human rights situation and for all the