Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan has taken a progressive stance on the freedom of Muslim women, openly rejecting the controversial views of influential cleric Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar. This move puts him at odds with his ally, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), which has supported the cleric's position.
Context
During last week’s Eid Milad-un-Nabi celebrations, Musliyar warned against women mingling with men in public places, stating,
“"Exhibiting young women in public places and among unrelated men is un-Islamic, and such celebrations cannot be allowed."
He further asserted that women should remain confined to their homes, claiming that allowing them into public spaces would lead to "great destruction." His comments sparked a significant backlash in Kerala, with mixed reactions from political parties and support from various community leaders and scholars.
Developments
In response to the IUML’s endorsement of Musliyar’s views, Satheesan stated that such a stance is "not suitable for progressive Kerala." He emphasized that:
“"Neither Congress nor the government can agree to that stand. Such a thing should be stated in the 19th century, not in this 21st century. Women should live in mainstream society, taking part in all activities."
