Row over Kanthapuram directive limiting women’s public participation grows as Samastha defends ‘right to preach’

The controversy surrounding Islamic scholar Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliar's remarks on Muslim women's public participation has escalated, with his rival Samastha faction defending his right to preach religious doctrine. The debate has expanded to encompass religion, public life, and political intervention, as Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama head Syed Mohammed Jifri Muthukoya Thangal urged critics to stop interfering in religious matters.

Jifri Thangal stated that religious scholars should not be attacked or disparaged for explaining religious teachings, emphasizing that people in India are free to follow their faith and religious leaders are free to interpret it. The initial dispute stemmed from a circular issued by Kanthapuram, calling for restrictions on women's participation in Milad celebrations marking the Prophet Muhammad's birth anniversary as they became more public.

Kanthapuram defended his stance at a gathering, claiming that allowing women on public platforms could result in chaos. The issue has drawn criticism from various political leaders, including the CPI(M) and Congress parties. The Samastha faction's intervention highlights the growing debate over religious authority and its implications for public life.