IOS Kolkata Chapter’s Discussion on “Future of Indian Muslim Women: Challenges and Opportunities”

IOS Kolkata Chapter’s Discussion on “Future of Indian Muslim Women: Challenges and Opportunities”

Kolkata: A lecture-cum-discussion on “Future of Indian Muslim Women: Challenges and Opportunities” was organised by the Institute of Objective Studies, Kolkata Chapter on Monday, February 3, 2025, at its Conference Room in Kolkata. The discussion was aimed at exploring the multifaceted challenges and opportunities faced by Indian Muslim women, with a special emphasis on education, employment, and legal rights.

The keynote speaker, Prof. (Dr.) Haseena Hashia, Vice-Chairperson of the Institute of Objective Studies, said “empowering Muslim women is empowering the nation”. She highlighted the importance of education and healthcare for the empowerment of Muslim women. She cited facts from national reports, emphasising that while Muslim female literacy has improved to 68% (NSSO 2017-18), the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education remains the lowest among all communities (AISHE 2021-22). She highlighted the economic marginalisation of Muslim women, pointing out that only 14% participate in the formal workforce of India (PLFS 2021-22). She stressed the need for increased scholarships, better infrastructure, and career-oriented training programs to bridge this gap.

Mrs. Fatema Zehra Salehati, Lecturer at the Department of Islamic Theology, Aliah University, Kolkata also spoke on the topic, sharing her perspectives and expressing her gratitude to IOS for organising such an important discussion.

The event was moderated by Mr. Md. Shahjahan, Vice Principal of Jibreel International School, Kolkata, who highlighted the significance of the topic and the need for organising similar discussions on the rights and progress of Muslim women in India.

In his concluding remarks, Mr. Abdul Basit Ismail, Coordinator, IOS Kolkata Chapter, thanked the speakers and attendees. He expressed optimism about the outcomes of the session and stressed the need to work further on gender studies, conducting of a survey on the status of Muslim women in West Bengal, and organising a national seminar on education, employment, and legal rights of Muslim women in India.

The event successfully reinforced the need for policy reforms, educational access, and community-driven initiatives to ensure a brighter future for Indian Muslim women.

A view of audience