Kerala cleric regrets remarks on women, urges ‘restraint’ as CPM leaders join criticism

A P Aboobacker Musliyar, a revered 94-year-old Muslim cleric in Kerala known as 'Kanthapuram,' has expressed regret over his recent remarks on women in public spaces. He called for his followers to exercise restraint and emphasized that discussions should be used as platforms for impartial evaluation of ideas and learning.

Musliyar's comments had sparked controversy after Eid Milad-un-Nabi, with critics accusing him of promoting outdated gender norms. The Kerala Chief Minister, V D Satheesan, also condemned his remarks, though the CPI(M) party briefly defended him. CPI(M) state committee member P K Sainaba argued that modern Muslim women are more progressive and should be allowed to enjoy the rights enshrined in the Constitution.

The cleric, who has backed the CPI(M) in the past, is known for his conservative views on gender issues. In 2009, he suggested banning polygamy, opposing co-education, and advocating for a higher minimum age of marriage for Muslim women. His Samastha Kerala Sunni Vidyabhyasa Board oversees numerous madrasas in the state, and his flagship venture, Markaz Knowledge City, showcases his modern approach to integrating religion and business.