Women have the highest status in Islam: Former CEC

Women have the highest status in Islam and the Muslim community must see things with a liberal interpretation now, former Chief Election Commissioner of India S.Y. Quraishi said on Thursday.

Speaking in the backdrop of the ongoing debate about Triple Talaq, Quraishi said: "Muslim women have the highest status in Islam and no other religion has such concept of equality."

Giving examples of property rights of women in Islam and right to education he said: "There is a perception that women are suppressed. The government must think that the laws are sacred within a community as they are seen with liberal interpretations now."

"We all (Muslims) should also unite together and not give anyone a chance to interfere with our religious laws," Quraishi said.

Speaking at a function on the 96th foundation day of Jamia Milia Islamia, Vice Chancellor Talat Ahmad said there is a need to focus on education of minority communities in the country, especially the Muslims, for them to progress in society.

"The community will progress only when everyone receives education."

"Given the circumstances, we do not have to let any community remain backward in any aspect," he added.

University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Ved Prakash said the country needs to place its education system right. "We need to sit together and interpret in terms of curricular and ensure diversity there in," Prakash said.

The function was held to inaugurate a "Talimi Mela" (educational fair) in the campus.

Various other programmes, including Art and photography exhibitions, lectures by academicians, film screenings and cultural shows were also held at the campus in the ongoing three-day celebrations.

--IANS

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