A Birmingham mosque is facing demands for 'robust' action after hosting a preacher who claimed men have a right to 'physically discipline' their wives. The controversial sermon, delivered in December, has ignited a significant row over misogyny and the responsibilities of religious charities.
Controversial Sermon Streamed Online
The incident centres on a sermon given by Aqeel Mahmood at the Green Lane Masjid and Community Centre in Small Heath. His talk was broadcast via a live stream in December 2025.
During his address, Mahmood stated that 'discipline in case of rebellion' was a right of a husband over a wife. He described physical discipline as a 'last resort', but claimed it could be permissible 'on the condition it doesn't cause pain, injury, fear or humiliation'.
He elaborated: "The husband is a leader, he has responsibilities. Physical discipline is a last resort on the condition that it doesn't cause pain, injury, fear or humiliation."
National Secular Society Demands Action
The remarks have drawn fierce criticism from the National Secular Society (NSS). The campaign group has called for 'far more robust action' against charities it accuses of promoting misogynistic views.
Megan Manson, Head of Campaigns at the NSS, said: "Once again, Green Lane Masjid demonstrates that giving misogynistic charities 'advice and guidance' isn't working. Despite being previously advised over misogyny, this charity has gone on to host a sermon condoning 'physical discipline' of women."
She added that such attitudes were "clearly not in the public benefit" and criticised a perceived pattern where religious charities "appear to get away with it again and again."
The NSS confirmed it had previously reported Green Lane Masjid to the Charity Commission on two separate occasions over concerns related to misogyny.
Mosque Declines to Comment
When approached for a response by BirminghamLive, Green Lane Masjid and Community Centre offered no comment on the controversy or the specific claims made during the sermon.
The lack of response and the nature of the preached content have intensified demands for accountability. Critics argue that views which appear to condone any form of physical correction within marriage are unacceptable and contribute to harmful, controlling attitudes towards women.
The Charity Commission is likely to face renewed pressure to investigate the governance of the charity following this latest incident and the history of complaints.
