KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Sushila Karki’s recent comments about Muslim women have drawn sharp criticism from Muslim community leaders, who say her statements undermine social harmony and fall short of the dignity expected from the country’s executive head.
Speaking at a public event, PM Karki had remarked that some Muslim practices appear unjust, citing instances of women being oppressed, barred from education in some countries and early marriages involving young girls. Muslim leaders say the comments were sweeping, insensitive and misrepresentative of the community.
In a public notice, Dr. Abul Husain Ansari said the community is deeply disappointed by what he described as a careless and irresponsible statement. He added that comments of such nature could disturb long-standing social cohesion and mutual respect among religious groups.
The Muslim community has called a gathering at Karki Banquet in Babarmahal at 2 PM today to discuss the Prime Minister’s remarks and chart a collective response. Dr. Ansari urged all members of the community to attend.
The controversy has surfaced at a time when minority groups have been urging the government to adopt more sensitive and inclusive language in public policy and official statements.
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