A new Islamic charity in Harrow has sparked outrage after a preacher declared women must obey their husbands’ every command—unless it breaks religious law.
Welcome to 2026? Outdated Views Spark Backlash
Ahmed Shah, speaking in a marriage sermon posted on the Hatch End Islamic Centre’s YouTube channel, claimed: “Anything that the man commands his wife, she has to do unless it goes against Sharia law.” He went further, insisting it is “mandatory for her to do the housework and to serve him.”
Regulator Steps In After Public Complaints
The National Secular Society (NSS) blew the whistle in October, raising serious concerns about the charity’s messages promoting gender inequality.
Following the NSS complaint, the charity swiftly removed all its YouTube videos. UK charity law requires organisations to act in the public interest—not promote outdated, controlling views.
Adding fuel to the fire, the sermon appeared to be aimed at young men in the audience, raising alarm over its potential influence.
Why This Matters
- Charities must operate for public benefit under UK law.
- Messages promoting gender subservience clash with modern equality values.
- Regulators are monitoring such sermons to protect vulnerable audiences.
This saga shines a harsh light on clashes between religious preaching and contemporary social standards in Britain today.
