KOZHIKODE:While there is nothing new in Rajeena’s statement as there have been cases against madrasa teachers for sexual abuse, she says that “she was waiting for an apt occasion” to speak out. She feels that India is facing the threat of communal fascist elements. “Religious intolerance has risen to such a level that girls and boys are not allowed to sit together in classes. The major criticism against me was that I gave the communal forces a reason to criticise Muslims again,” she says.
“My point is that to fight communal fascist elements, we must be clean and tolerant enough to face criticism. It is intolerant clergymen’s people who became tools to criticise Muslims. Had they reacted in a healthy manner, the discussion would have brought in a sea change in the community.”
The sub-editor is determined to continue her crusade for gender equality. She is part of a forward friendly group of Muslim women who want to bring change in society. “We have issues pertaining to divorce and dowry within the community. There are many questions to be answered—where should the girl go after divorce, what is her status, who should she remarry? The dowry system is a larger context to be discussed in society. There is no gender inequality in the religion. The clergy brings the divide. Those who threatened me are a large group of men moulded by the clergy,” she says.
While no political party has come to her support yet, she was backed by activists and writers such as BRP Bhaskar, singer Shahabaz Aman, director Ashiq Abu, critic Abdul Kareem Uttalkandiyil and Rekha Raj. She has also not faced any issues from the organisation where she works. “I am getting the support of a majority, who are not active on Facebook. This is a positive sign,” she adds.
She has taken screenshots of the offensive comments and will approach cyber police, if needed. “This is not the first time a woman has been harassed online for expressing her bold views,” says Rajeena.