The Hudood Ordinances are a set of laws enacted in Pakistan in 1979 aimed at enforcing Islamic law, particularly concerning offenses like theft, adultery, and false accusation of adultery. These laws were introduced during the regime of General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq and are intended to establish specific punishments for certain crimes, aligning with interpretations of Sharia law. The ordinances have been controversial, as they have been criticized for their impact on women's rights and the judicial process. Many argue that the laws can lead to unjust punishments and have been misused in cases of gender-based violence. Reforms and discussions about the Hudood Ordinances continue in Pakistan's legal and social landscape.