The recent adjournment motion presented by certain opposition members in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir assembly has stirred a considerable uproar, rightly so. Led by opposition leader Chaudhry Latif Akbar, members of the People’s Party in Azad Kashmir, including Chaudhry Yasin, Sardar Javed Ayub, Nabila Ayub, and Member of the Legislative Assembly of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Nisara Abbasi on behalf of the PML-N, signed a special letter concerning women.
This adjournment motion, however, has raised eyebrows for all the wrong reasons. It questions fundamental Islamic principles and has been presented in an assembly situated in a state that prides itself on its Muslim identity. The motion contests the decision of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir University, which directed female students to adhere to the hijab dress code. It is indeed regrettable that such a motion, which appears to contravene Islamic norms, has been tabled in an assembly representing a Muslim-majority region.
The motion argues against the university’s directive, advocating for the freedom of female students to dress as they please within the classroom, and even questions the ban on girls’ swimwear within the university premises. Such contentions directly challenge the Islamic ethos and cultural fabric of Azad Kashmir.
It is concerning to note the defiance exhibited by certain assembly members against the religious and cultural values of Azad Kashmir. The argument, put forth by Chaudhry Latif Akbar, advocating for the removal of uniforms from government schools and suggesting that students should have the freedom to attend classes wearing attire such as ‘dhoti’ or ‘nakar,’ seems to be out of touch with the sentiments and values of the region.
The parallels drawn with the situation in India, particularly concerning the issue of the hijab ban, are alarming. We cannot afford to import ideologies that run counter to our cultural and religious ethos. The recent incident in India, where a Muslim girl faced harassment for wearing the hijab, should serve as a stark reminder of the importance of preserving our religious freedoms.
The decision by Azad Kashmir University to incorporate the hijab dress code, based on the suggestions of parents, teachers, and elders, was aimed at creating a conducive environment for female education. However, this move has been met with protests, suggesting a disconnection with the Islamic identity of Azad Kashmir.
It is imperative that the opposition members withdraw this motion and offer an apology to the people of Azad Kashmir, as well as seek forgiveness from Allah and His Messenger. The silence of the Council of Islamic Ideology in Azad Kashmir on this matter is also perplexing and warrants attention.
We must uphold our regional culture and values while promoting education, especially for girls. The adoption of the hijab dress code by Azad Kashmir University was a step in the right direction, ensuring a safe environment for female students and alleviating parental concerns. We must not allow our state to become a battleground for conflicting ideologies, but rather, we should strive to preserve our rich Islamic heritage.
The Quranic injunctions regarding the hijab are clear, emphasizing the modesty and dignity of women. Therefore, any attempt to undermine these principles should be met with strong opposition. Let us remember the words of the Holy Quran: “O Prophet! Tell your women and your daughters and the Muslim women to hang down a little of their cloaks over themselves, it is very close so that if they are recognized, no one will persecute them.”
Chaudhry Latif Akbar and others who have supported this motion should reflect on their actions and reassess their stance in light of the Islamic teachings and the sentiments of the people of Azad Kashmir. We cannot afford to compromise our religious and cultural values in the pursuit of agendas that are contrary to the essence of Islam. It is time for our leaders to uphold the sanctity of our beliefs and safeguard the Islamic identity of Azad Kashmir.
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