America
US Muslims support VP Rajeena, victimized for speaking up against child abuse
Journalist shared her experiences at a Madrasa (traditional Islamic school) during her childhood
The Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC - www.iamc.com), an advocacy group dedicated to safeguarding India's pluralist and tolerant ethos, has expressed support for journalist VP Rajeena, who described instances of sexual abuse of children that she witnessed in a Madrasa (traditional Islamic school) over two decades ago.
Ms. Rajeena, who works for a Malayalam newspaper, posted on Facebook her childhood experiences at a Madrasa, where an "ustad" (teacher) allegedly engaged in abusive behavior with both boys and girls. Unfortunately, instead of taking the journalist's revelations with the seriousness they deserve, many Muslims questioned her motives or launched a harassment campaign online including threats and hateful remarks. Its heartening to note she has received some support as well. Ms. Rajeena has repeatedly stated her post was not intended to be a generalization of all Madrasas, but a sharing of her own experience. Since Ms. Rajeena's revelations, Kerala filmmaker Ali Akbar has come forward alleging abuse by an Ustad at a Madrasa in Wayanad district.
"There are many Madrasas across
IAMC has called for an internal but independent and transparent assessment by credible community leaders, leading up to an investigation by law enforcement in all instances where there are grounds to believe the law has been violated.
Indian-American Muslim Council is the largest advocacy
organization of Indian Muslims in the
CONTACT:
Indian American Muslim Council
Phone/fax: 1-800-839-7270
Email:[email protected]