An Egyptian court has ordered the army to stop forcing virginity tests on female detainees in military prisons.
A woman filed a case, saying she was forced to undergo such a test in March after being arrested in a protest in Tahrir Square.
Demonstrators gathered outside the State Council, chanting against military abuses and expressing their solidarity with women who have been subjected to such tests.
(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) DEMONSTRATOR MAHEENOUR ALBADRAWY SAYING:
"We are here in solidarity with Samira as well as all women and youth who were pressured in an attempt to end the revolution. But with God's will, the revolution continues."
Activists said the verdict was a victory for civilian courts over generals who took charge when Hosni Mubarak was ousted from power in February.
(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) DEMONSTRATOR IBRAHIM ELMASRY SAYING:
"We will never let go of our rights. Whether youth or women, we will always participate and we will not quiet down until we see our country on the right path."
The ruling also adds pressure on the army to hold to account troops who have been criticised by Egyptians over their treatment of women during the protests.
Michaela Cabrera Reuters.
