Taslima Nasreen sparked strong reactions at the Rising Bharat Summit 2026 after stating that “Muslims are most unsafe in Muslim countries,” during a discussion on freedom, human rights, and religious extremism.
Speaking at the summit, Taslima Nasreen shared her views on the condition of free speech, women’s rights, and minority protection in several countries with Muslim-majority populations. She argued that intolerance, radicalism, and restrictions on dissent often create unsafe environments not only for minorities but also for Muslims who hold liberal or reformist views.
Nasreen, known internationally for her outspoken criticism of religious extremism and advocacy for secularism, said that individuals who question orthodox practices or support progressive ideas frequently face threats, censorship, or persecution in certain societies.
“Muslims are most unsafe in Muslim countries because dissent is often not tolerated and reformist voices are targeted,” she remarked during the interaction, drawing both support and criticism on social media.
The author also emphasized the importance of protecting freedom of expression and ensuring equal rights for women and minorities across all societies. She called for stronger commitment to secular values, education, and human rights to counter intolerance and violence.
Her comments triggered widespread debate online, with supporters praising her for speaking openly about issues related to extremism and social restrictions, while critics accused her of making sweeping generalisations about Muslim-majority nations.
Taslima Nasreen has lived in exile for several years following threats over her writings and public statements. She has consistently advocated for secular democracy, gender equality, and freedom of speech, often drawing controversy for her criticism of conservative religious practices.
The Rising Bharat Summit 2026 featured discussions involving politicians, intellectuals, activists, and policy experts on issues ranging from governance and technology to social reform and global politics.
Observers noted that Nasreen’s remarks once again highlighted the continuing global debate over balancing religious identity, individual freedoms, and democratic values in modern societies. The discussion also underscored the broader conversation around freedom of expression and the challenges faced by dissenting voices worldwide.
