Muslim cleric row puts Satheesan at odds with IUML over Muslim women’s place in public life

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan made a progressive statement regarding Muslim women's freedom, opposing the stance of influential cleric Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar. Musliyar, also known as Kanthapuram, warned against women mingling with men in public places, stating that such celebrations are un-Islamic and should not be allowed.

He claimed that women should remain confined to their homes and that the Quran teaches this, asserting that women's entry into the public arena would lead to great destruction. This statement was supported by IUML, which often acts as a buffer against orthodox elements within the community. In response, Satheesan rejected the cleric's views, claiming that they are not suitable for progressive Kerala and that women should participate in all activities in mainstream society.

He argued that the Quran was being misinterpreted, citing examples of women with significant roles in Islamic history. Despite criticism from conservative clerics, Muslim women have increasingly taken part in public life in Kerala, with a growing presence of Muslim women in local bodies and political positions.