The country is seeing the rise of "barbaric" ideologies: MP

MP for South Galolhu constituency, Meekail Ahmed Naseem has stated that the country is not seeing a rise of strict religious ideologies but the rise of "barbaric" ideologies.

While speaking during the parliamentary debate on the emergency motion presented regarding reports of a 13-year-old child bride, and vandalism in Maaungoodhoo island of Shaviyani atoll using the logo of a terrorist organization, Meekail claimed that we are currently seeing calls for blood-shed whenever an academic opinion is shared.

He further declared that the country is seeing the rise of groups plotting to demolish the Islamic values of the country and attempting to replace it with "barbaric" ideologies instead. He went on to state that such actions will not be tolerated.

MP for North Galolhu constituency and deputy speaker, Eva Abdulla also contributed to the debate and stated that the terror militant group ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) is attempting to extend their influence onto South Asian countries due to their defeat in Syria.

While noting that the country is at the brink of war, she called for swift action to be taken against such groups.

The parliamentary group leader of MDP (Maldivian Democratic Party) and MP for Central Henveyru constituency, Ali Azim also spoke during the debate and asserted that the debate is not a religious one.

According to Azim, these issues need to be discussed because these are clearly a violation of laws mandated in the country's constitution. He claimed that neglecting to address these issues, ISIS and its supporters will be emboldened in their activities, evident by the current incidents coming to light.

The emergency motion states that members of terrorist cells have been intimidating and striking fear into the hearts of law-abiding citizens by tagging public property of Maaungoodhoo island in Shaviyani atoll with the logo of the terrorist militant group known as I.S.I.S, in an attempt to "conquer" the island.

Moreover, it declares that children are not physically and mentally on the same level as adults referring to the reports of a pregnant 13-year-old child bride that came to public attention after her rapist was violently attacked by his crew-mates on a sea-cucumber fishing boat due to a disagreement during a religious discussion.

It also highlights that child abusers and child sex offenders are running rampant in society despite article 35(a) of the constitution and the Child Rights Protection Bill mandates that children must be given protection by their family, the public and the state.