Kolkata, 04 August (H.S.) : Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasrin on Tuesday called for restoring the democratic rights of all political parties in Bangladesh, urging authorities to lift restrictions on former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's party and allow it to participate in the country's political process once again. She also spoke out against religion-based politics, saying it is harmful to both women's rights and society.

Speaking at Panihati in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district after paying tribute at the grave of renowned social reformer Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, Nasrin said Begum Rokeya had faced strong opposition from Muslim fundamentalists during her lifetime because of her advocacy for women's education, women's rights, and her resistance to religious extremism.

Nasrin alleged that Begum Rokeya was denied a proper burial by fundamentalist elements and was eventually buried in Panihati under the cover of darkness. She said her visit was intended to pay homage to the pioneering reformer and register her protest against religious fundamentalism.

Commenting on Bangladesh's political landscape, Nasrin said she would have no objection if Jamaat-e-Islami were banned from politics, alleging that the party supports Sharia law and policies she described as anti-women, which, in her view, could pose a threat to the rights of women and religious minorities.

At the same time, she maintained that in a democratic system all political parties should have the right to participate in elections and political activities. Referring to Sheikh Hasina's party, Nasrin said the restrictions imposed on it should be withdrawn so that it can return to mainstream politics. She also expressed her desire to return to Bangladesh, adding that she has not been allowed to do so.

Nasrin further endorsed the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) across the Indian subcontinent. She argued that a common civil code would ensure equal rights for women irrespective of their religion. According to her, laws should be based on the principle of equality rather than religious identity, so that no woman is deprived of her rights because of her faith.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh