"We cannot accept to have in our country women who are prisoners behind netting, cut off from all social life, deprived of identity," he said. "That is not the idea that the French republic has of women's dignity."Another one exact opposite to this remark was made by President Obama in his speech in Cairo. Again quoting form the full text of speech in Guardian
"That is why the US government has gone to court to protect the right of women and girls to wear the hijab, and to punish those who would deny it."Interestingly all this sounds from a different world when we have in India debates on Western vs Indian cloths. But then most of us restrict ourselves to comparing only Western vs sarees.
A very good article by TOI on the same subject.
Edited to add: just a thought in my mind. Do maulavis approve of Valentine Day or if Bajrang Dal has a company from the other side of spectrum?"In a world where sexual-crime is rampant, the burqa denotes comfort, security and allows a woman her dignity, they say. "
"Denying that the burqa has any oppressive value to it, they say modern burqas are quite fashionable, with gems and jewels embroidered on them. Fancy ones can be priced as much as Rs 50,000, and these aren't the bridal ones."
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As someone said in a TV debate a couple of days back, if Muslim countries feel that imposing of "Islamic" dress code even on non-Muslim women in their countries is justified, then they have no right whatsoever to complain about some other country imposing its own code.
ReplyDeleteThe essence of Obama's speech was to tell Muslims that the US was not against their religion; it was only fighting extreme and violent elements belonging to it.
There is really no contradiction in both views.
Was it Salman Rushdie who said that he found it impossible to believe that it is God's will that 50% of his creation should be put inside sacks so that the remaining 50% don't get a hard on on seeing them?!
There is little doubt in an unbiased person's mind that burkha is a symbol of oppression and inequality just as untouchability was/is. To my mind and the minds of many others, Burkha is reflective of the deep-rooted insecurity of Arab men. It can have nothing to do with God or even religion.
As you pointed out, the difference between French and American societies is clearly brought out.
ReplyDeleteThe French for all their progress are a closed society and do not take outside influences very kindly. Their stout resistance to the take-over of Arcelor by Mittals is just one instance of their jingoism.
American society on the other hand is comparatively more liberal.
Re: - Burka / Hijab....is a matter of personal choice and be left to the individual. Does wearing a hijab or burka make a person more or less learned or more or less religious or spiritual. The core issue is education, empowerment, ingraining liberal human values and making women responsible members of modern society.
Indian Muslims again present a different picture. Many families do not opt for the veiled dress and a larger number perhaps do. How does that matter?....Preferences change over a period of time.
we must learn something from this man Sarkozy.He says what he feels is right for his country.He is not a hypocrate like us.Such politicians and such countries are sure to successed
ReplyDeleteVinod Sir .. yes i think that was Salman Rushdie only .. Thats why is always on a run ..
ReplyDeleteMavin sir: yes its about the difference and also about guys standing up and speaking what they thinks is right for his country .. Burqa or no Burqa should be left at who wear them and that should be worn or not worn without any fear ..
Chowla sir: Sarkozy is considered to be a nationalist and from right wing in his own country .. although he has moderated a bit