Kerala Islamic scholar defends claim women belong only in homes

At an Islamic gathering in Kochi, scholar Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar reiterated that women should remain within their homes, claiming this aligns with Quranic guidance and prevents societal harm. He linked his position to a recent circular from the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, which ordered that women not appear on public platforms alongside men. The circular, signed by Samastha president E Sulaiman Musliyar and general secretary Kanthapuram, sparked backlash from female political leaders who challenged its gender-based restrictions.

Defending the directive, Musliyar said the principle has been taught by Samastha scholars for about 100 years and upholds women’s honor. He added that religious experts have a duty to speak on the issue regardless of criticism, and that no one can silence them. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between traditional religious interpretations and calls for gender equality in public life.