Kozhikode, 13 September (H.S.):

Sunni leader Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar has stood by his controversial remarks on women’s freedom, asserting that Islamic principles cannot be altered to satisfy political parties or individuals.

Speaking at an event in Malappuram, Kanthapuram said religious scholars expressed their positions only after extensive deliberations and examination of Islamic texts.

“Religious scholars do not speak according to anyone’s opinion or preference. We arrive at a ruling after considerable thought and examination of religious texts. Once such a position is stated, there is no question of changing it for the sake of any individual or political party,” he said.

The clarification comes amid criticism over remarks he made at an Islamic conference in Kochi last month. Kanthapuram had said the Quran directed women to remain within their homes and avoid appearing on public platforms. He had also argued that Islam prescribed the purdah because bringing women into public spaces could cause serious social harm.

His remarks followed a circular issued by Samastha prohibiting women from sharing public stages with men.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has publicly disagreed with Kanthapuram’s position, saying Malaysia provides women with equal rights and opportunities. His comments came ahead of a scheduled meeting with Kanthapuram in Kozhikode.

Anwar said he was prepared to express his disagreement directly to the religious leader if the matter arose during their meeting. He acknowledged Kanthapuram as a traditional religious scholar who had contributed to the understanding of the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, but stressed that he was not obliged to agree with all his views.

Referring to nursing colleges run by institutions associated with Kanthapuram, Anwar pointed out that women studying in such institutions would eventually work in hospitals.

“In Malaysia, we provide equal rights to women. More women than men study in our universities. My wife is a medical doctor, and all my children, including my daughters, have been given opportunities to study and become independent,” he said.

Anwar added that people need not agree with every opinion expressed by religious scholars, just as they need not endorse every position taken by prime ministers or presidents.

The Malaysian Prime Minister is scheduled to arrive at Karipur airport in the evening and visit Markaz between 7.30 p.m. and 9.30 p.m. Kanthapuram will present him with the inaugural Excellence Award instituted by the Sheikh Aboobacker Foundation. Anwar will later visit the C.M. Maqam at Madavoor before returning to his accommodation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman