Shias to campaign against female foeticide

Lucknow, March 14 (IANS) All set to prove their progressive nature, Shia Muslims have resolved to wage war against female foeticide.

A resolution to that effect was passed at a two-0day convention of the All India Shia Personal Law Board (AISPLB) that concluded here Sunday.

Simultaneously, the board also sought to raise its voice against what it termed was 'utter neglect of the community at all levels'.

Board president Maulana Mohammad Athar said here Monday: 'The voice of five crore Shias in India went unheard simply because the community had never got its rightful place in the political hierarchy of the country.'

He sought 'reservation of seats for Shias on the same lines as other communities'.

As for female foeticide, the board vowed to set up a special helpline where help would be available round to the clock to take down complaints.

'Action will promptly follow against those forcing their wives or daughters-in-law to abort the female foetus,' he said.

The board also called for a campaign against dowry and extravagance in marriages.

'We need to propagate mass marriages of the poor, with contributions from the well-to-do,' said Maulana Athar.