If religious laws remain in force, women will never get equal rights. Advocating for a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) based on the principle of equality, exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasrin made this remark. On Tuesday, while visiting the gravesite of social reformer and writer Begum Rokeya in Panihati, West Bengal, Taslima Nasrin also demanded the lifting of the ban imposed on the Awami League in Bangladesh.
Taslima Nasrin said that religion-based personal laws are one of the biggest obstacles to women’s equal rights. Advocating for laws to be built on the principle of equal rights instead of religion, she said, “With religious laws in place, women will never get equal rights. That is why a Uniform Civil Code based on equal rights must be implemented.”
The author also pointed out that Hindu women in Bangladesh face discrimination in several areas, including inheritance. According to her, religion-based personal laws are the root cause of this discrimination. Taslima Nasrin said, “Hindu women in Bangladesh also do not get equal rights. They face discrimination in various areas including inheritance. If UCC is implemented, all this discrimination will end.”
Taslima Nasrin further noted that in most developed countries of the world, civil laws are not based on religion, but on the principles of equal rights and human rights. Advocating against basing legislation on religion, she said that in civilized countries, civil laws are not religion-based. Personal and family laws are also framed on the principle of equal rights.
The author also made her views clear on the political situation in Bangladesh. In the interest of democracy, she said the ban on the Awami League should be lifted and Sheikh Hasina should be given the opportunity to participate in politics again. Taslima Nasrin said, “I believe in democracy. The ban on the Awami League should be lifted and Sheikh Hasina should be allowed to participate in politics again. Every political party should have equal rights to do politics.”
She also criticized Jamaat-e-Islami, opposing religion-based politics. Alleging that the party supports Sharia law and anti-women policies, Taslima Nasrin said, “If Jamaat-e-Islami comes to power, minorities will not have the right to live safely. Women will also be deprived of basic rights.”
Taslima Nasrin also said she is still willing to return to Bangladesh. However, she informed that she has not yet received permission to do so.
