My statement on Taliban deliberately distorted

Srinagar: A day after former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti said the Taliban could become an example for the world if it followed 'real Islamic Sharia', she clarified on Thursday saying that her statement had been 'deliberately' distorted. Taking to Twitter she wrote: "Not surprised that my statement on Sharia has been deliberately distorted. Can't point fingers since most countries that claim to uphold Sharia have failed to imbibe its true values. They are only fixated with restricting women through do's and dont's, dress codes etc.

"The real Medina Charter stipulates equal rights for men, women and minorities. In fact women have been granted property, social, legal and marriage rights. Non muslims have the same rights in religious freedom and equality of law which is the essence of secularism." She further added: "Hazrat Khadija Tul Kubra, Prophet SWA first wife was an independent and successful business woman. Hazrat Ayesha Siddique led the Battle of Camel and headed a force of 13,000 soldiers. Islamic history is full of such examples of emancipated and empowered women.

"But at a time when India has become so polarised, there is increasing Islamphobia and Afghanistan crisis has only worsened it. Muslims are always expected to prove that they don't stand for violence. I can see why my statement is being used as click bait to further this impression."