Bangladesh stops women swimmers

BBC NEWS | South Asia: "Bangladesh's government has stopped women taking part in a swimming competition after pressure from an Islamic group. In July, a women's wrestling tournament was cancelled after threats to disrupt it, and a women's football competition was called off after protests.

The long-distance swimming competition had been due to take place in a river in Chandpur, south of the capital. Male swimmers set off as planned, but the women's event was cancelled. Four female swimmers had been expected to take part.

The Committee for Resistance to Un-Islamic Activities said women taking part in the sport would offend Bangladesh's more than 100 million Muslims. "