Tensions flared in Kerala this week as the state's chief minister found himself squarely in the crosshairs of a powerful Muslim organization. An editorial in Suprabhatham, the official publication of the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, delivered a stinging rebuke to V.D. Satheesan for his criticism of Sunni leader Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliar's controversial stance on women's public participation.

Key facts

  • Suprabhatham editorial published September 6, 2026
  • Criticizes CM Satheesan's response to Kanthapuram's comments
  • Kanthapuram is general secretary of Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama
  • Circular asked religious programs to follow Islamic norms regarding women

The Heart of the Controversy

At the center of this storm stands Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliar, the Grand Mufti of India and general secretary of Samastha. He recently issued a circular asking madrasas and religious centers under Samastha to ensure that women do not share stages or public spaces with unrelated men during religious celebrations. The chief minister quickly responded, calling these views "unsuitable for modern, progressive Keralam" and belonging to "the 19th century."

A Sharp Rebuttal

The Suprabhatham editorial, titled 'Speak respectfully,' didn't hold back. It compared Satheesan's comments to "a blind man describing an elephant" and pointedly noted the irony of his position—the same leader who once opposed young women's entry into Sabarimala now speaking about women's freedom. The editorial suggested that "a few elements from within the Muslim community" might be feeding the chief minister wrong information.

"The CM's response was based on a gross misunderstanding. Kanthapuram's statement that women put on display can cause major destruction was made at his centre where the community of believers congregate, to remind them of the kind of immorality that indecent behaviour by women can cause. He has all the freedom to say such things."

Political Undertones

The editorial didn't stop at theological arguments. It took a political turn, accusing Satheesan of previously extending a "good conduct certificate" to Jamaath-e-Islami before elections. The piece suggested that the chief minister might be attempting to shake off perceptions that his electoral prospects depend on Muslim community support, wondering aloud whether he's waging a 'lotus' war to redefine his political branding.