IUML leaders meet Kanthapuram amid row over remarks on women

IUML state president Panakkad Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal and senior party leader and state minister P.K. Kunhalikutty met Kanthapuram on Sunday. The meeting took place during the visit of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to the cleric, with the IUML leaders also meeting the Malaysian leader.

The outreach assumes significance as Kanthapuram’s comments have triggered a political and social debate in Kerala. He had argued that women should remain within their homes and linked restrictions on their public presence to the Islamic practice of purdah. His remarks have drawn criticism from sections of political parties and women’s organisations.

Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has strongly rejected the position, saying it has no place in a progressive society. He has argued that women should participate fully in public life and cited prominent women from Islamic history to counter the interpretation attributed to Kanthapuram.

The IUML, however, has previously adopted a more cautious position. Sadiq Ali Thangal had said Kanthapuram may have been expressing concern about women’s safety, while also suggesting that social questions could invite differing views.

The latest meeting is therefore being watched closely for its political implications, particularly amid efforts by different parties and religious organisations to consolidate support among Kerala’s Muslim electorate.