OUR society is riddled with social and cultural barriers set up by our conservative ancestors. Some of them might have made sense several decades ago, but are not needed anymore.

Sadly, most such practices were made solely by men and led to gender discrimination. Being a resident of Lakki Marwat, I know several women who are discriminated against in the name of religion. Unfortunately, this phenomenon is not limited to just one area, though it varies in intensity across the country. Both men and women are equal human beings and are equally responsible for making their home a better place.

It is high time we got rid of these useless cultural barriers, thought afresh and gave equal opportunities to both genders so that they may excel in their respective fields. That is the only way society may move forward collectively.

Saqib Marwat
Lakki Marwat

Published in Dawn, April 27th, 2022