Indian Candidate Creates Controversy By Opposing Veils

Dawn reports today that Muslim leaders in India are calling on Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to drop his support of the moderate Hindu governor of Rajasthan, Pratibha Patil, for election to the largely ceremonial post of president. Patil angered Muslims when, last week end, she urged women to end the practice of wearing the veil. She said the practice of wearing it started in the 16th century when women were trying to save themselves from Mughal invaders. Many historians say the practice actually began earlier than that. The presidential election is in July, and nominations can be made until June 30.