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Islamic country Tajikistan imposes nationwide ban on Hijab

Strict measure to curb radicalism

(Hijab is a garment used by Muslim women to cover the head and neck)

Dushanbe (Tajikistan) – In a significant move to combat extremism, Tajikistan, a country with 96% Muslim population, has imposed a complete ban on women wearing the hijab. Previously, hijabs were banned in schools since 2007 and in public institutions since 2009. Now, women are prohibited from covering their heads with any form of clothing anywhere in the country. President Emomali Rahmon, who has been in power for the last three decades, stated that religious identity is hindering the nation’s development. There are, however, concerns that this move might lead to unity among the country’s extremist elements against the Government.

Other regulations to curb extremism :

1. The Government has enacted a law prohibiting children from participating in religious events in public places. If a child receives religious education abroad, the parents are held accountable and face punishment.

2. Government plans to shut mosques across the country.

3. Tajikistan’s Government said it aims to preserve its national cultural values by imposing these bans. It believes this will help in combating superstition and radicalism.

4. The Government views the Islamic lifestyle and identity as a challenge to secularism.

5. Although there is no law against keeping a beard, if someone grows one, the Government will forcibly shaves it off.

6. In 2017, the Government shut down 1,938 mosques, converting them into tea shops and medical centres.

Tajikistan and Islamic terrorism

The Tajik Government considers extremism its biggest enemy. In recent years, hundreds of Tajik youths have joined the Islamic State. Last year, Tajik terrorists were involved in a terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall in Moscow, Russia, which resulted in over 140 deaths.

The number of Tajik citizens who traveled to Syria and Iraq to join the Islamic State was around 200 in 2014, 1,000 in 2015, and approximately 1,000 in 2018.

Editorial Perspectives

  • After Indonesia, India has the world’s second-largest Muslim population. Given that jihadi terrorism has engulfed India, there should be a ban on the hijab and madarasas in India too.
  • If an Islamic country like Tajikistan can enforce such laws, why can’t secular India ?

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