The program was initiated on Women's Day, 8 March 1927, and it was a change from the Bolshevik policy of religious freedom for the Muslims in Central Asia. Contrary to its aim, Hujum was seen by many Muslims as outside foreigners, namely Russians, attempting to force their culture upon the indigenous population of Tajiks, Tatars, and Uzbeks. The veil inadvertently became a cultural identity marker. Wearing it became an act of religious and political defiance, and a sign of support for ethnic nationalism. However, over time the campaign was a success - female literacy rates increased, while polygamy, honor killing, underage marriage, and use of the veil diminished.