CPI(M) general secretary M.A. Baby slams Islamic scholar Kanthapuram’s anti-women remarks
CPI(M) leader M.A. Baby has publicly criticized Islamic scholar Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar for suggesting that women's presence in public spaces leads to societal destruction. Baby argued that such views are regressive, unconstitutional, and share ideological similarities with the RSS's stance on women's roles.
Why it matters
The debate highlights ongoing tensions in India regarding religious interpretations of gender equality and the intersection of political discourse with traditional religious authority.
CPI(M) general secretary M.A. Baby on Thursday (September 3, 2026) flayed Islamic scholar Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar's remarks advocating restrictions on women's presence in public spaces and said that “most religions show reluctance to recognise gender equality.”
Mr. Baby alleged that Kanthapuram’s remarks were similar to the views expressed by the RSS.
Kanthapuram, while attending an Islamic event in Kochi on Sunday, had said that women's public appearance would cause "great destruction".
The remarks drew widespread criticism, with Keralam Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan also saying that he did not agree with such views.
Responding to reporters' queries about the remarks, Mr. Baby said “most religions, unfortunately, tend to show reluctance to recognise gender equality on various occasions.”
ALSO WATCH Watch: Why Kanthapuram’s remarks on women have triggered a debate in Kerala
"A reflection of this mindset is what has now emerged through the statement of Kanthapuram," he said.
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