15-Year-Old Christian Girl, Sitara Arif, Forcibly Married To 60-Year-Old Muslim Man in Pakistan
New
Age Islam News Bureau
25
February 2023
• Ragad
Al Naimi To Become First Saudi Female Boxer To Make Professional Debut
• Policing
Women's Dressing A Form Of Violation, Harassment, Says Sisters In Islam
• Pakistan
First Lady, Samina Arif Alvi, Urges Intensified Awareness to End Domestic
Violence
• Women’s
Empowerment Council Announce Convention In Dubai
Compiled
by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islam-women-feminism/christian-girl-pakistan-forceibly/d/129199
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15-Year-Old
Christian Girl, Sitara Arif, Forcibly Married To 60-Year-Old Muslim Man in
Pakistan
Photo:
First India/ Representative Image
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24
February, 2023
Islamabad
[Pakistan], February 24 (ANI): In yet another case a minor was kidnapped and
forcibly married to a 60-year-old Muslim man in Pakistan, reported Bitter
Winter, a magazine on religious liberty and human rights.
Massimo
Introvigne said that Sitara Arif was kidnapped on December 15 and it took two
months to persuade the police to investigate the case.
Her
father, Arif Gill, allowed Arif to accept a job as domestic help for Naila
Ambreen, the Muslim principal of a public school in Faisalabad, in Pakistan’s
Punjab.
Arif
was physically handicapped and unable to provide for his family, which
desperately needed money, so he decided to let Sitara work for a Muslim
employer.
Notably,
stories of girls from religious minorities forcibly converted to Islam and
married Muslim men are continuously reported by Pakistani and international
media, said Introvigne.
This
became true for Arif, when Rana Tayyab, the 60-year-old husband of Ambreen,
quickly noticed the beautiful Sitara and decided to take her as his second
wife, reported Bitter Winter.
It
is unclear whether, as it usually happens in these cases, Sitara was first
raped and then told that to escape the shame the only solution for her was to
consent to the marriage. She did not return home from work on December 15, and
her family later heard that she had converted to Islam and married Rana Tayyab.
Her
father and mother started asking the police to investigate, but they were not
heard and were even threatened. It was only this month, when the family
contacted Akmal Bhatti, a well-known attorney and the chairperson of Minorities
Alliance Pakistan, that the police finally registered an FIR (First Information
Report) and promised to investigate, reported Bitter Winter.
After
Bhatti’s intervention, police officers visited Naila Ambreen’s residence, but
neither her husband nor Sitara was home.
The
woman, however, showed to the police a nikah, an Islamic marriage certificate,
and confirmed that Rana Tayyab had taken Sitara as his second wife. Marrying a
minor is now illegal in Pakistan, but Ambreen told the police that she believes
Sitara is 18.
As
per Bhatti, the sequence of rape-forced conversion to Islam-forced marriage is
a model tragically repeating itself every week. He mentioned several cases of
Hindu girls who were victims of this criminal practice in 2023.
The
Christian community, which constitutes roughly 1.6 per cent of Pakistan’s
population, suffers from racism and religious intolerance.
The
Muslim majority describe them using derogatory terms such as ‘churha’ or
‘kafir,’ which means infidel. A large proportion of the Christian community is
from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, poorly educated, and takes up low-paid
manual labour such as in brick kilns or the sanitation sector. (ANI)
Source:
The Print
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Ragad
Al Naimi To Become First Saudi Female Boxer To Make Professional Debut
Ragad
Al Naimi
------
24
Feb 2023
Days
out from ‘The Truth’ and the latest must-see sports event for fans around the
world, the upcoming spectacle is generating interest and capturing imaginations
across the Kingdom in more ways than one.
Aside
from the long-awaited showdown where Jake Paul and Tommy Fury finally settle
their rivalry in boxing’s biggest grudge match, another story that captivates,
inspires, and paves the way for future female fighters will be on full display
in front of the world’s cameras, under the brights lights in Diriyah.
This
coming Sunday, a new era of women’s boxing in Saudi Arabia officially begins on
the evening’s undercard when Ragad Al Naimi becomes the first female boxer from
the Kingdom to make her professional debut. Ahead of her bout against Perpetual
Okaidah, Ragad is honoured to be representing her country on home soil and
looks forward to competing in such a high-profile event.
“Being
the first Saudi female to compete in an international boxing event gives me a
lot of pride. I never thought that I would one day be able to perform on such a
big international stage in my home country,” she said. “Saudi Arabia is a
young, vibrant country that supports and cherishes its youth, and I can’t wait
to be a part of this by competing on the upcoming card on February 26.”
“I’m
confident I will win,” the 28-year-old added. “I’m fully invested in my
training, I’ve always wanted to perform at the highest level, and I’m
determined to prove I can compete on international cards.”
After
being introduced to boxing while studying overseas in the United States,
Ragad’s passion for the sport compelled her to continue training upon her
return to the Kingdom. Although her involvement came much later than almost all
professional boxers, Ragad’s professional bow is certain the show emerging
talent that anything is possible with the correct application and commitment.
“For
me, boxing came by natural instinct,” she explained. “Usually fighters start
training at a very early age, whereas I began in my early 20s. The moment I
started boxing, I knew I was good at this sport and my love for it has never
waned. My first boxing classes began in early 2017 and by May 2018, I was able
to participate in a charity fight. From there, things kept progressing to
today, where the sport is developing in our country like never before.”
Recent
years have seen boxing play a pivotal part in Saudi Arabia’s ascension to one
of the fastest-growing countries in world sport, inspired by major
international events that left behind a lasting legacy. Perhaps the most
significant was ‘Clash on the Dunes’ in 2019, when Anthony Joshua avenged his
shock defeat to Andy Ruiz Jr and become a two-time world heavyweight champion
in front of a capacity crowd inside the Diriyah Arena.
Three
years on from the epic encounter, the overall event is directly impacting
boxing popularity to this day. Since then, a +300% increase in male and female
boxers registered with the Saudi Arabian Boxing Federation has been confirmed,
with the number of boxing gyms rising nationwide from seven to 59 and 53
registered clubs from other sports now having a boxing division.
Rasha
harbours no doubt about what instigated the Kingdom’s newfound love for boxing
and she is especially pleased with the proactivity and productivity of the
Ministry of Sport and Saudi Arabian Boxing Federation.
“The
massive difference in participation was after Clash on the Dunes,” Ragad
stated. “For both genders, interest in the sport has skyrocketed since then and
record numbers are continuously competing in local competitions hosted in
Riyadh and Jeddah.
“The
strategic efforts by the Ministry of Sport and the Saudi Arabian Boxing Federation
are really starting to show, not least with record numbers of men and women
engaging with boxing. I’m very impressed by the amount of time and energy they
are exerting to develop boxing, from hosting local tournaments, training judges
and referees, and investing in all levels of boxing — from grassroots through
to headline events. Their efforts have helped ensure the sport is developing
like never before. Many new gyms have recently opened and many people are
falling in love with boxing.”
Following
her professional debut on Sunday, Ragad will have an eye on the rest of the
evening’s fights, including Paul v Fury, which promises to be an unmissable
spectacle. Commenting on the main event between the two adversaries and
undefeated fighters, she offered her opinions on the match-up and who she
believes could come out on top.
“It
will be a very close fight,” she said. “Fury is a professional boxer and Paul
has been outstanding so far. I’m excited to see who will grab the win. For me,
I’m leaning more towards Paul, but we shall see.”
“I’m
confident I will win,” the 28-year-old added. “I’m fully invested in my
training, I’ve always wanted to perform at the highest level, and I’m
determined to prove I can compete on international cards.”
After
being introduced to boxing while studying overseas in the United States,
Ragad’s passion for the sport compelled her to continue training upon her
return to the Kingdom. Although her involvement came much later than almost all
professional boxers, Ragad’s professional bow is certain the show emerging
talent that anything is possible with the correct application and commitment.
“For
me, boxing came by natural instinct,” she explained. “Usually fighters start
training at a very early age, whereas I began in my early 20s. The moment I
started boxing, I knew I was good at this sport and my love for it has never
waned. My first boxing classes began in early 2017 and by May 2018, I was able
to participate in a charity fight. From there, things kept progressing to
today, where the sport is developing in our country like never before.”
Recent
years have seen boxing play a pivotal part in Saudi Arabia’s ascension to one
of the fastest-growing countries in world sport, inspired by major
international events that left behind a lasting legacy. Perhaps the most
significant was ‘Clash on the Dunes’ in 2019, when Anthony Joshua avenged his
shock defeat to Andy Ruiz Jr and become a two-time world heavyweight champion
in front of a capacity crowd inside the Diriyah Arena.
Three
years on from the epic encounter, the overall event is directly impacting
boxing popularity to this day. Since then, a +300% increase in male and female
boxers registered with the Saudi Arabian Boxing Federation has been confirmed,
with the number of boxing gyms rising nationwide from seven to 59 and 53
registered clubs from other sports now having a boxing division.
Rasha
harbours no doubt about what instigated the Kingdom’s newfound love for boxing
and she is especially pleased with the proactivity and productivity of the
Ministry of Sport and Saudi Arabian Boxing Federation.
“The
massive difference in participation was after Clash on the Dunes,” Ragad
stated. “For both genders, interest in the sport has skyrocketed since then and
record numbers are continuously competing in local competitions hosted in
Riyadh and Jeddah.
“The
strategic efforts by the Ministry of Sport and the Saudi Arabian Boxing
Federation are really starting to show, not least with record numbers of men
and women engaging with boxing. I’m very impressed by the amount of time and
energy they are exerting to develop boxing, from hosting local tournaments,
training judges and referees, and investing in all levels of boxing — from
grassroots through to headline events. Their efforts have helped ensure the sport
is developing like never before. Many new gyms have recently opened and many
people are falling in love with boxing.”
Following
her professional debut on Sunday, Ragad will have an eye on the rest of the
evening’s fights, including Paul v Fury, which promises to be an unmissable
spectacle. Commenting on the main event between the two adversaries and
undefeated fighters, she offered her opinions on the match-up and who she
believes could come out on top.
“It
will be a very close fight,” she said. “Fury is a professional boxer and Paul
has been outstanding so far. I’m excited to see who will grab the win. For me,
I’m leaning more towards Paul, but we shall see.”
The
Truth and Jake Paul vs Tommy Fury promises to be an unmissable spectacle from
Diriyah’s purpose-built arena and is part of Diriyah Season’s second edition,
which presents a series of world-class international sports and entertainment
events from the birthplace of Saudi Arabia and UNESCO heritage site.
Source:
Khaleej Times
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Policing women's dressing a form of violation, harassment, says Sisters in
Islam
24
Feb 2023
PETALING
JAYA: Moral policing on how women should dress is a form of violation and
harassment, and undermining their autonomy and dignity, says Sisters in Islam
(SIS).
It
said it was disconcerting to see this kind of moral policing continuously
happening in Malaysia.
"Sisters
in Islam opposes any efforts by the government, public institutions, or private
sector to force women to dress according to their rules and standards.
"This
is a form of violation and harassment to women to choose their attire and
undermine their autonomy and dignity," it said in a statement on Friday
(Feb 24).
Citing
several recent examples of women being subjected to policing on their attire,
including Terengganu’s decision to punish women who wear "revealing"
clothing and news of a woman asked to leave Parliament premises for wearing a
knee-length skirt, SIS said it strongly condemned any attempts to publicly
humiliate women and impose restrictive dress codes on them.
"This
imposition of dress codes degrades women and creates a climate of fear and
insecurity as women feel like they are constantly monitored and judged by
society in public spaces.
"Therefore,
it is imperative that both public and private institutions, as well as
individuals, put an end to this obsession with controlling women, particularly
how they dress.
"It
is misogynistic and sexist to set a standard for what is 'appropriate' and
'proper' for women," added SIS.
Source:
The Star
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Pakistan First Lady, Samina Arif Alvi, Urges Intensified Awareness to End
Domestic Violence
FEBRUARY
25, 2023
First
Lady Begum, Samina Arif Alvi, said that society should intensify efforts to end
violence against women and to ensure the provision of property rights to women
according to Islamic law. “Intensified awareness is needed across the country
about the relevant institutions and Violence Against Women Centers as well as
get them their property rights so that women who are victims of violence or
abuse do not have to go through difficulties.” She expressed these views on
Friday while visiting the Violence Against Women Centre (VAWC) in Social
Welfare Complex here. Begum Samina Arif Alvi visited different sections of the
center where officials briefed her about the facilities being extended at the
center and about its functioning. Speaking on this occasion, the First Lady
said that the role of women in the development of any society cannot be denied
adding that Islam has determined the rights and duties of men and women, which
should be practicised in an ideal Islamic society. She added that attention was
being paid to bring women forward in all spheres of life, but these efforts
need to be made more effective. Begum Samina Alvi said that there are laws for
women’s rights in Pakistan but these need to be fully implemented. Regarding
VAWC established in Multan, The First Lady stated that this center provides
one-window operation services. Women victims of violence or abuse are protected
here and aimed to safeguard the victims who fall prey to domestic violence or
abuse.
Source: Daily Times
https://dailytimes.com.pk/1066476/first-lady-urges-intensified-awareness-to-end-domestic-violence/
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Women’s Empowerment Council Announce Convention in Dubai
24
Feb 2023
The
Women’s Empowerment Council is proud to announce the upcoming Women’s
Empowerment Convention (WE Convention), taking place on March 7 and 8 at the
Dubai Opera and Armani Hotel. This exciting event will bring together over
2,000 guests and over 50 renowned speakers from around the world to share their
stories, insights, and strategies for success in leadership and empowerment.
The
WE Convention is dedicated to improving the lives of women through education,
inspiration, creativity, and excitement. Guest speakers will share their
personal experiences and knowledge, providing attendees with the tools and
motivation to make a difference in their own lives and careers. This
life-changing event, which celebrates International Women’s Day, will feature
notable guest speakers such as Maye Musk, Natalia Vodianova, Dr. Eng Suaad Al
Shamsi, Rosheen N. Ngorima, and Dr. Giovanna Graziosi Casimiro.
Attendees
will have the opportunity to learn from leading women in business, technology,
start-ups, media, and fashion, as well as gain valuable networking and learning
opportunities with influential role models. The event will include workshops,
informal networking, as well as a gala dinner and a fashion show.
“The
WE Convention is not just about education and empowerment, it’s about providing
a platform for women to speak out, share their success stories, and empower
each other to find new goals and meet new challenges. Together, we can create a
community of strong, confident, and successful women who support each other.” –
Mila Smart Semeshkina, President and Founder of the Women’s Empowerment
Council.
Tickets
for the WE Convention are now available and include access to the two-day
forum. A separate ticket for the gala dinner at the Armani Hotel is also
available and includes a stylish dinner, live music performances, fashion show,
and informal networking opportunities.
Join
the WE Convention and be a part of a community of modern women who support,
inspire, and empower each other. For more information or to consult the latest
speaker list, please visit the WE Convention’s website: https://www.weconvention.com.
Source:
Arabian Business
https://www.arabianbusiness.com/resources/womens-empowerment-council-announce-we-convention-in-dubai
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