K.T. Jaleel backs Kanthapuram, links remarks to IUML woman leaders’ conduct

Former Higher Education Minister and Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader K.T. Jaleel defended veteran Sunni leader Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar's recent remarks on women, connecting them to the public conduct and positions of IUML woman leaders and Haritha, the women students platform of the Indian Union Muslim League.

Dr. Jaleel claimed that the IUML leadership's silence on the issue was significant, as it highlighted the need for IUML leaders to adhere to Islamic teachings on women's roles within the Vanitha League and Haritha. He compared the controversy to the debate over women's entry into Sabarimala, stating that differing views on religious and social issues should be allowed in a democratic society.

Jaleel emphasized that Kanthapuram, being a religious scholar, had the right to express his opinions based on religious teachings and that others were free to disagree. He also noted that Kanthapuram had not demanded acceptance of his views or called for boycotts of those who disagreed, thus dismissing any justification for attacking him over his remarks.