However, a number of public surveys have shown that a clear majority, 70 percent, agree that wearing a headscarf is not contrary to secularism. The meaning of these surveys is obvious -- society does not have any problem with the headscarf. There are certain circles that try to incite polarization and tension based on an artificial headscarf issue. Part of the problem also concerns the Justice and Development Party (AK Party). Some assert that the number of women who wear a headscarf is on the rise because the AK Party administration promotes and encourages wearing it. The need for some form of revenge is becoming stronger; this is based on hatred. Recently, a girl with a headscarf was seen selling a communist journal in Istanbul. Her eyes reflected hatred. So who does this girl hate? Given the paper in her hands, we might say she hates the “dominant classes,” the “bourgeoisies.” If we consider her headscarf, we might say that she hates the “secularists.”
“The number of people with the headscarf is on the rise in the environment created by the AK Party.”
Is it right to reach such a solid sociological conclusion based on a single photo? Why would an aware Muslim embrace an outdated ideology instead of making efforts for the betterment of other people? What if this was a plot? Isn’t it normal to make up stories in the holy month of Ramadan based on false reports, alleging that somebody was beaten because he was not fasting? Isn’t it this kind of approach that actually incites hatred and provokes division in society? Every belief and faith has its radicals. But the rational majority is what should be considered. The rational majority of Turkey does not endorse politics over religion; but it also disagrees with those who oppose religion.
Now there is another popular assertion on the abolition of the headscarf ban -- that those who do not wear a headscarf will be subjected to increasing pressure and threats because of the justifying effect of the new constitution.
Is there anything graver than this for one who wears a headscarf because of her religious beliefs? Doesn’t this mean that the religious people who defend tolerance and respect for others’ choices are negating their stance? Will they ever be able to be convincing if they resort to this sort of action? Yes, there might be some who hold such concerns. They may assert that nobody knows where Turkey is heading. This is simply because our country is currently suffering from a loss of faith and confidence. This is a prevalent problem in families, business life, on the streets and even in state institutions. For this reason, keeping records on individuals is still commonplace in this country.
This lack of confidence sometimes turns into paranoia. We simply turn our lives into a living hell. Turkey’s rational majority is the primary assurance for this country. The majority which embraces the true and core premises of religion and is tolerant of all beliefs is the assurance of domestic peace in this country. We will either have trust and confidence in each other or will seek to inflict harm on each other based on assumptions and paranoia. Promotion of democracy fortified by the rule of law and freedom is the only way to maintain our confidence. A simple question for all of us to ask ourselves is, are we really democratic?
