“As Long as Islam Exists, Terrorism Will Exist”: Taslima Nasreen’s Controversial Remark Sparks Debate

At Delhi Literature Festival, exiled Bangladeshi author criticizes Islamic orthodoxy and links religion with terrorism

New Delhi | May 6, 2025:
Exiled Bangladeshi writer and author of the controversial novel Lajja, Taslima Nasreen, has once again stirred a major controversy with her latest statement linking Islam to global terrorism. Speaking at the Delhi Literature Festival, Nasreen said, “As long as Islam exists, terrorism will continue to exist.”

She made this remark in reference to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, in which 26 people were killed by militants reportedly asking victims to recite Islamic verses.

Key Statements from Taslima Nasreen:

“Islam hasn’t evolved in the last 1400 years. Until it does, it will keep producing terrorists.”

“When blind faith dominates over reason and humanity, the result is violence.”

“There should be no madrasas. Children must read all kinds of books, not just one.”

“Muslims are busy building mosques everywhere, while churches in Europe have become museums.”

Context: Pahalgam Terror Attack

On April 22, terrorists opened fire in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam, killing 26 people.
According to eyewitnesses, the attackers asked victims to recite the Islamic Kalma (declaration of faith). Those who failed or refused were shot dead.
The attack was later claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), a Pakistan-backed terror outfit linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Outrage and Support on Social Media

Nasreen also posted a similar message on her official X (formerly Twitter) handle:

“As long as Islam remains alive, non-Muslims, rationalists, and women will never be safe.”

“India Feels Like Home” – Taslima Nasreen

Reflecting on her years in exile, Nasreen said that despite living in the U.S. for a decade, she never felt at home there.

“India is where I truly feel at home,” she stated, referring to Kolkata and Delhi as places that embraced her.

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Analysis: Heated Reactions Across the Spectrum

Taslima Nasreen’s remarks have once again ignited the freedom of expression vs. religious sensitivity debate in India and abroad.
While many support her bold criticism of religious extremism, others—including religious organizations and political figures—have strongly condemned her statements as Islamophobic and divisive.

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The discussion around Taslima’s views is likely to intensify in the coming days, especially in light of increasing concerns around religious radicalism and freedom of speech in democratic societies.