Pakistani fashion designer Maria B has publicly criticized transgender rights activist Mehrub Moiz Awan over comments made during a recent podcast.

In the episode titled “Transgender Marriage Fatwa: The Rise of Transphobia, Populism, & Western Philosophy,” Mehrub referred to a fatwa from the Barelvi school of thought that purportedly permitted transgender marriages.

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Maria B has issued a video response, clarifying that the fatwa cited by Mehrub was revoked by Islamic scholars about a decade ago. She explained that the fatwa, initially issued during a period of confusion between intersex and transgender individuals, is no longer valid.

Maria B expressed frustration over what she perceives as the misuse of Islamic teachings in the ongoing discourse surrounding transgender rights. She also highlighted past statements from Mehrub, suggesting a pattern of controversial interpretations of Islamic doctrine.

This exchange has sparked a broader discussion about the interpretation of religious teachings and their application to contemporary issues.