Kerala Islamic body's circular on women at public events draws criticism
The Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, one of Kerala's largest Sunni Muslim organisations, has issued a circular directing mahals and madrasas to ensure that women are not present among unrelated men at religious events. The directive, signed by president E. Sulaiman Musliar and general secretary Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliar, has drawn criticism from political leaders and on social media, while the organisation has defended it as a religious reminder to its followers.
The circular instructs mahal and madrasa officials to conduct programmes in accordance with Islamic norms. It specifically says that women should not be present among men on stages or in public spaces during religious celebrations. It also warns against incorporating non-Islamic customs into Islamic festivals and ceremonies, asking officials to ensure that programmes maintain religious values and discipline.
The directive has drawn criticism, particularly on social media. P.K. Sreemathy, a central committee member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), 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. Her remarks were echoed by several other voices on social media, with some questioning the need for such a directive in contemporary times.
Functionaries of the Samastha, however, maintained that the circular contains nothing new and is intended only 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. He added that the organisation is not forcing its views on anyone.
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 have 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 leadership over the way religious celebrations are being conducted, including the participation of women in programmes held in public spaces.
The organisation, which oversees thousands of madrasas and mahals in Kerala, has a significant influence in the state's Muslim community. Its directives are generally followed by its affiliated institutions. The latest circular is seen as an attempt to standardise the conduct of religious programmes across its network.
The debate highlights the ongoing tension between religious traditions and evolving social norms in Kerala, a state known for its high social development indicators and relatively progressive attitudes on gender. While the Samastha maintains that its guidance is rooted in Islamic teachings, critics argue that such directives risk restricting women's participation in community life. The organisation has clarified that the circular is addressed to its own network and not to the general public.
