UP-based Islamic seminary bans women's entry over photo shoots
What's the story
The Uttar Pradesh-based Islamic seminary, Darul Uloom Deoband, has imposed a ban on the entry of women on its campus. This decision was taken on Thursday after officials received multiple complaints about women filming videos and reels for social media within the premises, reportedly disrupting students' studies. The seminary's administrator, Maulana Mufti Abul Qasim Nomani, confirmed the ban, stating, "Darul Uloom is an Islamic seminary and such acts are not acceptable in any school."
Reasons explained
Ban triggered by social media activity and overcrowding
"Not only this, a new session of education has started in Darul Uloom. Due to overcrowding, students' studies were also getting affected. We received several complaints in this regard," Nomani added. According to the Hindustan Times, women and girls were already barred from entering Rashidia mosque, and this prohibition has now been extended to the entire premises.
Reaction
Directive is 'anti-women': Activist
Nomani further said that guards at the gates have been directed to inform female visitors about the ban and persuade them to return. Reacting to the ban, Rehana Adeeb of Astitva, a non-profit that works against women's violence in Saharanpur, said the directive is "anti-women" and contradicts the concept of gender equality. She stated that she and other women used to visit Darul Uloom's Fatwa department and library and meet with lecturers to discuss various topics and seek counsel.