Sunni Mahallu Federation calls on Kanthapuram critics to stop interfering in religious matters

Kanthapuram AP Aboobacker Musliar

Sunni Mahallu Federation (SMF), a branch of Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, has called on critics of religious scholars to stop interfering in religious matters in the name of women’s freedom and liberalism.

At the state council meeting in Chemmad on Wednesday (September 2, 2026), the SMF said that every religion has its own laws, practices and rituals and that religious scholars issue rulings for believers to follow them. She stated that such decisions are not imposed on those who do not follow them.

The council urged people to consider the statements of scholars in their proper context and meaning before criticizing them.

The resolution came amid criticism from rival Kanthapuram Sunni leader AP Aboobacker Musliar for his remarks that women should not be allowed to mix freely with men during religious celebrations in public spaces. The SMF also urged the media to exercise caution and responsibility when reporting or discussing religious matters.

The meeting was inaugurated by SMF State Treasurer Syed Abbasali Shihab Thangal, who is also the district president of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML). State Labor President Bahaudheen Mohammed Nadwi presided.

Published – 03 Sep 2026 02:17 IST