Clerics issue fatwa against Nusrat Jahan for 'un-Islamic' attire

In an issue sparking controversy, clerics issued a fatwa against newly-elected MP Nusrat Jahan over her 'un-Islamic' attire while taking oath in Parliament. They also criticised her over her marriage to a Jain man.

New Delhi: Criticising her 'un-Islamic' post-marriage appearance at her oath-taking ceremony in Parliament on June 25, a group of Muslim clerics issued a ‘fatwa’ against newly-married Trinamool MP Nusrat Jahan.

Mufti Mukarram Ahmed said, "Islam does not allow 'Sindoor'. It's not Muslim culture... It's not a marriage. It looks more like a relation to show off. Both Muslims and Jains won't consider it a marriage. She is no more a Jain or a Muslim. She has done a big crime and she should not have done it."

However, Jahan hit back at her critics and wrote on Twitter, "I represent an inclusive India which is beyond the barriers of caste, creed and religion."

She also wrote that she "respects all religions".

"I still remain a Muslim and none should comment on what I choose to wear. Faith is beyond attire and is more about believing and practicing the invaluable doctrines of all religions," Jahan said.

Jahan tied the knot with businessman Nikhil Jain on June 19.

Jahan was seen sporting 'sindoor' - traditionally worn by Hindu and Jain women -and a pink and white saree during her oath-taking ceremony in Parliament on June 25.

She also wore bangles and had her hands covered in beautiful curls and swirls of henna designs. The TMC lawmaker had touched the feet of Speaker Om Birla and sought his blessings.