The ACLU believes Zainab’s treatment is due to her being placed on a government watchlist, on account of her religion and her writing.
Washington: In a shocking incident of insult and humiliation a Muslim writer was forced to pull her undergarments down and show her blooded sanitary napkin during an airport screening.
Zainab Merchant a Harvard University graduate was flying from Boston to Washington, D.C, when a female Transportation Security Administration (TSA), patted her at Boston Logan airport. And after touching her groin, the officer said that a private screening would be required. Though Zainab tried to explain the officers that she was on her period and was wearing a sanitary napkin, she was taken to a private room and was ordered to pull down her underwear and show the pad to the TSA officer.
Despite Zainab’s request, the officers concealed their identity and didn’t show their name badges. It is said that Zainab was subjected to excessive checks while travelling earlier as well.
In the past, officers have referred to her website ‘Zainab Rights’ and have questioned her for writing criticism on US policy. She was also quizzed by officers about her faith and even asked about her thoughts on ISIS.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) submitted a written complaint to Home Land Security Department (HCD) and demanded action against the officer. Besides, it also launched an online campaign and appealed people to sign the petition to prevent Muslim women like Zainab Merchant from being humiliated at airports. Zainab Merchant is a graduate from Harvard University. She is also the editor of a current affairs website ‘Zainab Rights’
The ACLU believes Zainab’s treatment is due to her being placed on a government watchlist, on account of her religion and her writing.
