I dont agree with those who think that the conflict is simply between two religions, namely Christianity and Islam... To me, the key conflict is between irrational blind faith and rational, logical minds.

I have had fatwas issued against me, some three in Bangladesh and another five in India. I will not be cowed by these threats and shall fight for my rights.

I was well acquainted with the Calcutta literary circle since I was 17, when I lived in Bangladesh and published and edited a little magazine called 'Sejuti,' for which young poets from both Bengals wrote. If you look at my life, there is no question of using anyone for anything. I have only got banned, blacklisted and banished.

I believe in absolute freedom of expression. Everyone has a right to offend and be offended.

I studied in a medical college and qualified myself as a medical graduate.

Nature says women are human beings, men have made religions to deny it. Nature says women are human beings, men cry out no!

Religious fundamentalists in Bangladesh have always argued for a ban on my books.