The VALIANT

Monday 26 January 2009

Women forbidden to eat in Pakistan restaurants


Sunday 25th January, 2009


The Taliban has warned women in Quetta, Paksitan, to stop frequenting restaurants.

Recently, a number of restaurants in Quetta stopped serving female customers under pressure from religious hardliners, who have the support of the Taliban.

A number of popular eateries have put up boards that say: "For gentlemen only. Women not allowed."

Hardliners believe that men and women socialise only for immoral purposes, with shops and restaurants becoming dating places for both girls and boys.

Female customers have expressed their outrage over the move, calling the restriction sheer discrimination.

After putting numerous restrictions on women in the Swat Valley, the Taliban influence is increasingly posing a threat to the freedom of women across the rest of Pakistan.

The Daily Times has reported the Taliban enjoys the overwhelming support of some sections of the population, including many ministers of the provincial coalition government.

Recently, video and CD shops and Internet cafes were attacked with bombs, and threats were issued.

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