The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leaders convened with Kerala cleric Kanthapuram AP Aboobacker Musliar on Sunday to address the ongoing controversy stemming from his remarks about women. This gathering signifies an effort to reconcile differing views within the Muslim community amid an emotionally charged atmosphere.

Present at the meeting were IUML state president Panakkad Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal and senior leader and Minister PK Kunhalikutty. The encounter was reportedly of great importance, as it marked the first formal engagement between the cleric and the IUML since divisions emerged within the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama.

Compounding the significance of the meeting, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim was in attendance. He met with the cleric during his visit to India, coinciding with discussions aimed at fostering unity and collaboration among Muslim leaders in the region.

Background of the Controversy

The remarks made by Kanthapuram regarding women’s public participation have sparked considerable debate. He reportedly stated that the increased visibility of women in public forums leads to “great destruction” and asserted that Islamic teachings emphasise the necessity for purdah, suggesting that women should primarily remain within domestic spaces.

In light of this controversy, IUML leader PK Kunhalikutty characterised Kanthapuram’s statements as “a scholarly expression,” indicating support from certain quarters within the party. Other IUML members echoed this sentiment, defending the cleric’s right to express his views, noted for their rootedness in religious interpretation.

The IUML’s support of Kanthapuram occurs against a backdrop of his faction allegedly aligning more closely with the IUML, even as it has historically been perceived as having links with the Communist Party of India (Marxist). This shift in dynamics has prompted much speculation about the future of Muslim political alliances in Kerala.

Response from Political Leaders

Chief Minister VD Satheesan recently condemned Kanthapuram’s comments, describing them as incompatible with Kerala’s progressive values. His remarks triggered a defensive reaction from the cleric’s faction, who sought to express dissatisfaction with the Chief Minister’s stance. In the face of criticism, leaders within Kanthapuram’s faction met with Satheesan to convey their discontent.

Nonetheless, the Chief Minister has maintained his viewpoint, asserting the need for a more modern interpretation of social roles, especially with regard to women. Additionally, Fathima Thahliya, the IUML’s only female MLA, has come forth advocating for women’s rights.

Despite her emphasis on equality, she distanced herself from criticism of Kanthapuram, referring to him as a “great scholar” and affirming that she does not support singling him out for criticism. This ongoing dialogue reflects the complexities and tensions within Kerala’s social fabric, as leaders navigate the delicate interplay of tradition, modernity, and the expectations of their constituencies.

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