Modest dress
It has been observed fairly recently that some European countries are banning the wearing of veils. Without understanding the inner significance of this tradition some of the so called self-declared smart (!) people in Bangladesh as well are thinking to ban or prohibit this tradition. This is not actually tradition. This is a human right of women what kind of dresses and costumes they will choose for themselves. If it is dictated by certain quarters of men, then there is a question of Male Chauvinism. Men should not dictate any female to wear hizab and if any woman wants to wear it none should stop her. Traditionally most of our mothers, daughters and sisters are religious. If they want to fulfil the order given by Alllah (SWT) by wearing veil we should rather encourage it instead of prohibiting it. The recent influx of rape, eve-teasing leading to suicide and indecent assault are to some extent linked with not wearing modest dress. If any girl goes outside without wearing the proper modest dress it is quite normal that boys on the road and corner may peep in and comment on the beauty of the girl and will try to tease her to satisfy his lust. That's why The Ahkamul Hakimin (Judge of all judges) Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala has given the injunction in the Holy Qur'an (Surat-un-Nur 24.30-31) in the following way:
"Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty: that will make for greater purity for them: And Allah is well acquainted with all that they do. And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty.” The internal significance of this Qur'anic injunction is to maintain the chastity of women from the lust of derailed and perverted men. The recent cases of eve teasing, indecent assaults and rape are related to non-wearing of the veil. That's why it is high time now to encourage our sisters and daughters to wear the modest dress.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments