Sponsored by
Islamic position on burkas
Prescott Street Halifax
I write in relation to the recent debate on the banning of the burka in France.
While I do not agree a ban is the way forward I do agree that a better understanding of the Islamic position on this issue needs to be addressed.
People need to understand the Islamic injunctions and philosophy governing society, which will enable people to appreciate and better understand (though not agree with) the position taken by Islam on segregation and the issue of the veil.
In short, Islam seeks to promote a society in which values such as honesty, trust, loyalty, justice, respect, freedom, and equality form the backbone of society.
Too many commentators these days appear to be giving the perception that they represent the Muslim masses and are experts on this issue when, in fact, they are not – all they are doing is perpetuating false stereotypes, which only serves to alienate rather than enhance mutual understanding.
The truth of the matter is that there is a rise in Islamophobia; whether this is direct or hidden behind the veil of liberalism, it now is becoming apparent that this is acceptable even among some political quarters.
Muslims are privileged to live in Britain, which does not interfere in an individual's personal matter and allows one to practise their religion freely – a right that is not even enjoyed in some so-called Muslim states. This is exactly what a secular and democratic state should do.
To go down the path of France would create unrest and disorder in society. Some would argue that such rights are not granted to non-Muslims in Muslim countries but two wrongs do not make a right and doesn't the West have superior levels of human rights, equality and tolerance?
If the West is to continue to uphold these values and laws, it will need to stop pandering to the extremist right wing agenda of promoting discrimination and Islamophobia.
Any ban may also run the risk of legal challenge as it may contravene both Article 18 of the United Nations Declaration on Human Rights and (in France) France's Declaration of Rights of Man and of the Citizen on which the French Constitution is based. These ensure freedom to practise religion and hold religious beliefs.
Whether we agree with it or not Muslim women should be entitled to wear the burka/niqab or other form of head covering. For many this is a requirement of their faith.
To suggest or give a perception that the majority of Muslim women are forced to do this and that Islam advocates inequality between the sexes is absolutely absurd and lacks understanding of the Islamic faith.
There is nothing to fear from Islam, which is completely synonymous and exists in harmony within a secular society.
The key is tolerance and engagement which will enable us to have a better understanding of each other to remove any misconceptions, stereotypes and prejudices.
Just as those opposed to the ban are entitled to voice their opinion so must Muslim women be able to practice their faith freely without interference and meddling from the state.
Swords can win territories but not minds. Force can bend heads but not minds. As human beings we are free to do what we want and have always done so.
Farooq Aftab
Just as those opposed to the ban are entitled to voice their opinion so must Muslim women be able to practice their faith freely without interference and meddling from the state.
Swords can win territories but not minds. Force can bend heads but not minds. As human beings we are free to do what we want and have always done so.
Farooq Aftab
Email to a friend
Print this page- A58 crash UPDATE: road now re-open after man hit by car earlier this morning
- Crash on the A58 in Halifax this morning UPDATE: Man in hospital with several broken bones
- Taxi worker dies aged 35 after finishing his shift
- Man suffers serious injuries in accident on M62
- How the new Halifax Central Library will look
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Halifax
Saturday 11 February 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: -2 C to 0 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: South west
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 2 C to 5 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: North west
