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The Norms of Veiling and Female Employment
The practice of veiling among women in Northern India originated from Central Asian invasions, leading to the belief that male honor relies on female seclusion. Today, regions like Bihar and registered in India have very low female urban employment rates due to societal norms dictating that husbands must approve of their wives' work. Research shows that even when women in slums are offered well-paid jobs, they often decline due to their husbands' disapproval, fearing gossip and loss of status. This historical practice of veiling has deep roots in archaeology, Islamic texts, art, and contemporary economic studies, revealing a complex interplay between cultural traditions and modern societal structures.