Championing Reform: Nazia Elahi Khan’s Fight for Equality and Justice for Muslim Women

“We must challenge the outdated and oppressive practices within the Muslim community, ensuring equal opportunities for both men and women.”

In this interview, Nazia Elahi Khan, a 33-year-old Senior Supreme Court lawyer and single mother, shared her journey of overcoming personal tragedies and societal challenges and her efforts towards social justice and equality.

Khan began by recounting her early life and the circumstances that shaped her. She became a widow shortly after her marriage and has since been the sole provider for her son and elderly parents. Despite coming from a highly conservative Muslim family, her parents raised her in a liberal, modern environment, which she credits for her strength and resilience.

Professionally, Khan’s focus shifted after a tragic incident in her married life. She prioritized her child’s upbringing, completed her education, and deeply studied her religion to understand and reform its practices. Her research into the Quran led her to challenge regressive practices within her community. She notably raised her voice against triple talaq, becoming the youngest counsel in the landmark case that led to its abolition in 2017. She has also taken up cases against polygamy and Halala in the Supreme Court and is currently pursuing a ban on early marriages for Muslim girls.

Khan discussed the hostility and threats she faced from her community due to her outspoken stance. She survived an acid attack and numerous other threats yet remains determined to advocate for reform. She emphasized the need for a reform mission within the Muslim community, focusing on gender equality and education.

Addressing the issue of minority status, Khan criticized the misuse of the minority card by Muslim leaders, arguing that it perpetuates victimhood and hinders progress. She highlighted the numerous government schemes designed to benefit Muslims yet lamented the lack of education and professional growth within the community. Khan stressed the importance of balancing religious studies with modern education, citing the current government’s initiative to encourage young Muslims to pursue careers in science and technology.

Khan expressed frustration with the Waqf Board, labeling it a land mafia that fails to serve the Muslim community’s needs. She criticized its mismanagement of resources and lack of meaningful contributions to education and development.

On the topic of women’s rights, Khan revealed the deep-seated gender discrimination within Islam. Women are subjected to numerous restrictions, while men enjoy significant freedoms. She called for a reformation to empower women and provide them with equal opportunities.

Khan also addressed the treatment of the LGBTQ community within Islam, noting the severe discrimination they face. She pointed out the double standards within the community, where rapists are not boycotted, but LGBTQ individuals are ostracized.

Khan concluded by expressing her support for the resurgence of Hindu civilization in India, viewing it as a positive development that restores balance and cultural pride. She emphasized the importance of integrating Muslims into the broader Indian society, fostering unity and progress.