Humanity has progressed to a stage where equality is a barometer of civilization. But, surprisingly, a woman’s equal rights to inheritance seems to remain a glaring hole in our policy table. The constitution of Bangladesh proclaims equal status and opportunity for all, regardless of race, gender, religion, but the discriminatory provisions of the Muslim Personal Law (Sharia) Act 1937 go against the very principles of equality as propagated by the constitution. Article 27 of the constitution stipulates that all citizens are equal before the law and are entitled to equal protection by the law. The obligation is to uphold the core values of humanity — values such as human dignity, as well as principles of equality.

Source: Dhaka Tribune February 12, 2018 18:22 UTC