File photo of Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliar
A circular issued by the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama led by Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliar directing mahals and madrasas not to let women be present among unrelated men at religious events has sparked criticism.In a joint statement, Samastha president E. Sulaiman Musliar and general secretary Mr. Aboobacker asked mahal and madrasa officials to ensure that programmes follow Islamic norms.The circular said women should not be present among men on stages or in public spaces during religious celebrations. It also warned against incorporating non-Islamic customs into Islamic festivals and ceremonies.Criticism against directiveThe directive has drawn criticism, particularly on social media. Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] central committee member P.K. Sreemathy condemned the statement, calling its language objectionable and demanding its withdrawal. She said Prophet Muhammad and Islam called for women to be treated with respect and consideration.Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama functionaries defended the circular, saying there was nothing new in it and that it was intended for its followers.“As Islamic scholars, they have done their duty. They reminded the faithful not to deviate from their religious path. Everyone has the freedom to live and preach according to their faith,” said Jamal Karulai, Kerala Muslim Jamaat district secretary.‘Maintain values, discipline’The circular also asked mahal officials and the leadership of mosques, madrasas and other institutions to ensure that programmes maintain religious values and discipline.The circular was issued against the backdrop of Milad-e-Sharif celebrations expanding beyond their traditional settings in some places. In some mahals, the festivities had moved beyond mosques, madrasas and mahal committees, with youth clubs also taking up the celebrations.The wider public events have raised concerns within the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama leadership over the way religious celebrations are being conducted and the participation of women in programmes held in public spaces. Published - August 28, 2026 07:15 pm IST
