Coincidentally, I read two books on Saudi Arabia recently. One is a tale of a Saudi princess called Princess (an amazing true story) and another is a memoir of a British Muslim doctor who worked in Saudi Arabia. When I was reading them, I could not believe that such suppression is possible in any part of the world. And believe me, I’ve read books on Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan, but Saudi Arabia takes the cake in being the most oppressive to its women.The human rights situation of women is deplorable in this country. The country practises the toughest and most orthodox form of Islam called Wahabism and combines the laws with traditional tribal customs to make lives miserable for most women. Just to give you an idea. Women are not allowed to drive. They are not allowed to vote. Their education is minimal mostly religious. They have to be in full veil at all times outside the house. They have no individual say in matters of marriage, child custody, divorce. A woman is a man’s property and ownership passes on from a father to husband to son. In short, the laws and their interpretations are loaded against the women. If you wish to read more see this link.It is disturbing to read that this is actually happening, and no one can really help these poor souls. Being an Indian, I understand all about “izzat” or honor and certainly, we have our own traditions and customs, in some smaller towns and villages very oppressive too. But, change is happening, and I am confident that the pace will be greater with the passage of time. Each one of us should be aware that change is essential and must happen with the times. And that suppressing half your population is hardly going to serve you in the long term. For the sake of decency and humanity, I hope that sane voices will be heeded in these parts of the world. If you find time, do read these books.
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