New Delhi, August 31: The recent statement by Grand Mufti Sheikh Abubakar Ahmed of Kerala, suggesting that women should remain confined to their homes, has sparked intense debate across the nation. During a religious conference in Kochi, he argued that women should not participate in public life, likening them to gold jewelry that must be kept safe in a box.
He claimed that allowing women into public life could lead to “great destruction” and connected this view to the practice of purdah. In response, Dr. Shalini Ali, National Coordinator of the Muslim National Forum and head of its women’s wing, expressed strong opposition. She stated that confining women under the guise of respect is not honoring them; rather, it restricts their freedom and potential.
Dr. Ali emphasized that the daughters of India, who serve in the armed forces and excel as scientists, doctors, engineers, educators, journalists, pilots, and athletes, deserve more than to be advised to stay at home. Such a suggestion is an affront to the reality of modern India.
Describing the Grand Mufti’s comments as offensive and dictatorial, Dr. Ali argued that women are not mere decorative objects to be locked away. They are independent individuals with dreams, talents, and the right to make their own decisions. She criticized the mindset that seeks to confine women within the walls of their homes, stating that it hinders societal progress.
The Grand Mufti defended his position by claiming that his remarks are rooted in religious interpretation, asserting that the Quran provides such guidance and that purdah is meant to protect women’s dignity and safety. However, critics question whether taking away someone’s freedom in the name of safety can truly be considered respectful. Should a woman’s dignity depend on how isolated she is from society?
To illustrate his argument, the Grand Mufti compared women to gold necklaces, which are displayed in jewelry stores after being taken out of their boxes. He suggested that if women were allowed in public, it could lead to their degradation, similar to how jewelry might lose its value if mishandled.
This analogy has become a focal point of controversy. Critics argue that comparing women to inanimate objects is inappropriate. A woman is not a possession but a rights-bearing citizen. Her education, career, and ability to participate in public life cannot be dismissed under the pretext of “safety” or “honor.” Dr. Ali’s objections center on this fundamental issue.
Today’s India has moved far beyond the outdated notion that a woman’s identity is confined to her home and family. Women are fighter pilots, scientists, doctors, engineers, and leaders in various fields, representing India on global platforms. The idea of keeping women confined is not only a hindrance to their personal growth but also an attempt to stifle the potential of half the population.
Dr. Ali pointed out that Indian women are serving in all branches of the armed forces and making significant contributions across various sectors, including science, medicine, and education. She believes that rather than viewing women as weak, society should trust in their capabilities. If a woman can defend her country, she is also capable of making her own life choices.
The Grand Mufti also mentioned that scholars, particularly from Sunni religious organizations, have long promoted this viewpoint, arguing that it helps maintain women’s dignity. He defended his right to speak on religious matters, asserting that scholars have studied religion and thus have a duty to discuss it.
In the latter part of his speech, he referred to the historical status of women in Islam, claiming that Islam has prohibited practices like female infanticide and granted women rights to property and inheritance. He argued that the system keeping women away from public life should be viewed as a means of respect and protection.
However, the Muslim National Forum’s strongest objection lies in the belief that a woman’s dignity is not found in confinement but in her rights, independence, and respect. If a woman chooses to manage her home, that is her right; if she wishes to join the military, become a doctor, pursue journalism, or engage in business, she should be free to do so.
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