Imran Khan is a name that catches everyone’s attention and is very frequently a part of the news, especially these days. Supposedly poor decisions, some U-turns and of course, Reham Khan’s book – it seems like there’s a lot going on in his life right now than usual. And a recent update has pretty much just piled stuff on.
A video has been making rounds on social media where Imran Khan is seen to take a seemingly anti-feminist stance.
The feminism movement in the West has 'degraded' the role of a mother Imran Khan? Really?! #PTI pic.twitter.com/UwIpEeADil
— Bilal Farooqi (@bilalfqi) June 17, 2018
Just to make sure we’re all on the same page, let’s accept this as the definition of feminism
There are countless branches and aspects of feminism itself, but let’s just use this definition for now. Here’s the thing, the movement doesn’t really have a great fanbase in Pakistan, in large part for being misunderstood so it’s still trying to find its footing. As such, it can be a pretty sensitive topic for a lot of people especially those advocating for the equality of women.
Khair, Imran Khan’s statement has ruffled feathers online and has started debates, like this one:
The feminist movement has made women aware of the endless possibilities of their being through exercise of their agency. Fixing it for #PTI followers
— nafeesamushtaq (@nafeesaM9) June 17, 2018
He was specific about motherhood and that too about those women who neglect their children.
— Irfan arif⚘ (@Irfaniiousness) June 17, 2018
He should talk about fatherhood if he can't talk about parenting
— nafeesamushtaq (@nafeesaM9) June 17, 2018
People are also questioning Khan Sahab’s understanding of feminism.
Does he understand the meaning of feminism?
— Faria (@FariaSays) June 17, 2018
Seems no one told Imran Khan ever what exactly is feminism. The man speaks out of his pre conceived notions about just everything, without having even a shallow information about it let alone in-depth knowledge. https://t.co/GSBQZzhJkB
— Marvi Sirmed मार्वि ماروی (@marvisirmed) June 17, 2018
Imran Khan's views on feminism show his utter lack of understanding of the issue. He should ensure he is better briefed or not speak on issues he has little knowledge and awareness of.
— Abbas Nasir (@abbasnasir59) June 17, 2018
When one of the biggest political leaders of Pakistan doesn’t understand feminism, it does pose a big problem for the advancement of women’s rights in Pakistan unfortunately. If anything, listening to this will only further the negative sentiments held by so many people against feminism.
Some people have even picked up on problematic aspects of his statements.
WTF does he mean by " sahi maa, waqai maa" ?
— Heer Heer (@HeerHeer20) June 17, 2018
Can someone explain to me how feminism has degraded motherhood & what western feminism has to do with motherhood?@ImranKhanPTI
— AR⚽ (@ARfrom1947) June 17, 2018
Others weren’t really surprised by what he said.
I am surprised that you guys are shocked by Imran Khan’s views on feminism. Why are you so surprised by his misogyny when that is the one thing Pakistani men are best at?
— . (@lightermachis) June 17, 2018
People even had this wonderful comeback for the argument against “Western feminism.”
"Feminism, which is from the West, has degraded motherhood." — @ImranKhanPTI
In the meanwhile, his ex-wife, a self declared feminist from the West appears to be a wonderful mother. So maybe he should *literally* look at his own family before making such jarring statements.
— Kala Kawa (@kaalakawaa) June 17, 2018
And some people challenged him to a debate on the matter.
I challenge @ImranKhanPTI to a public debate on feminism.
Let's talk. https://t.co/WEQbmglhTr
— Bina Shah (@BinaShah) June 17, 2018
And I don’t mean to be a reacher here, but um… did Bilawal Bhutto just low key sass Imran Khan too? LOLLLL
“No nation can rise to height of glory unless women r side by side with you.We r victims of evil customs.Its a crime against humanity tht women r shutup within walls of houses as prisoners.Theres no sanction anywhere for the deplorable condition which women have to live.”-Jinnah
— BilawalBhuttoZardari (@BBhuttoZardari) June 17, 2018
One thing is for sure. By Imran Khan bringing up feminism on mainstream media, maybe it might allow actual conversations to happen that could reduce misconceptions around what feminism is.
Khair, let us know if you agree or disagree with Imran Khan’s statement. We’d like to see what your opinions are especially around the topic of feminism and the role of political leaders in the advancement of women’s rights.
I Hate To Break It To You But Feminism Isn’t The Problem, You Are. And Here’s Why
Pakistani Dramas Now Have Complex Female Characters But Why Are The Men Still Regressive Stereotypes?
Cover image via thenews.com.pk