Sir: Our society has been a victim of double standards. The things, which are good for men, are considered bad for women. There is a lack of understanding about the role of males and females in society. This is the result of ignorance prevailing in society among educated and uneducated alike. Illiterate people are not only those who are uneducated, but also the ones who even have done PhD. We do not allow our daughters to do what they want to do (daughters do not even have a right to decide what to wear and what not, but sons can go out in shorts). Girls are barred even from choosing a profession of their choice. The misinterpretation of selected quotes from the Quran is used as a strong weapon to tame the female gender according to their wishes. Illiteracy and ignorance of society are smartly exploited by so-called religious scholars. Illiteracy in society has dragged us in the Stone Age era. Uneducated religious godfathers have joined hands to exploit the men and women alike. Women in particular are affected the most due to their simplicity and reliability on the prevailing system. Due to this mad race, women have idolised the western culture which itself is sinking. I have a conviction that our religion provides us enough opportunities to play a bigger role in society to turn this world into a heaven. We must, play an active role in the positive upbringing of our youth to make them good human beings. ZOYA KHAN Via email