Aboobacker Musliar Hits Back As Kerala CPM Secretary Slams His Remarks On Mixed-Gender Workouts: 'Needn't Insult Us'

In response, Govindan, speaking in Palakkad, condemned what he described as "superstitious" attitudes that oppose women’s participation in public life.

The cleric defended his position, asserting that his comments were rooted in Islamic practices and not directed at other religions.

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Muslim cleric and Jem-Iyyattul Ulama General Secretary AP Aboobacker Musliar has hit back at CPI(M) Kerala State Secretary M.V. Govindan for criticising his remarks on mixed-gender workout sessions in public spaces. The cleric defended his position and asserted that his comments were rooted in Islamic practices and not directed at other religions.

"The CPI(M) secretary need not try to insult us when we say something about what to practice in our religion. We have not said anything about other religions," Musliar said on Tuesday.

Taking a jab at Govindan’s stance on male domination, Musliar questioned the CPI(M)’s commitment to gender equality. He pointed out the absence of women among the 18 area secretaries selected by the party in Govindan’s home district of Kannur, asking, "Why are women not considered in his party?"

The controversy began when Musliar, during a speech on Sunday criticised mixed-gender workout sessions, particularly those organised under the MEC-7 banner in northern Kerala, which he claimed contradicted Islamic principles. These sessions, attended predominantly by Muslims, have sparked debate in the community.

In response, Govindan, speaking in Palakkad, condemned what he described as "superstitious" attitudes that oppose women’s participation in public life. Without naming Musliar, he emphasised, “The society cannot progress with an attitude of male domination. Women have come up in the state adapting to the progressive ideals brought in by the national, reformist and Communist movements.”

Historically, the AP Sunni faction of the Jem-Iyyattul Ulama, led by Musliar, has maintained a soft stance toward the Left. 

This statement follows controversies surrounding the ‘Multi-Exercise Combination 7 (MEC 7)’ routine, which had previously sparked widespread debate.

Earlier, a press release issued by the Samastha Mushavara Yogam emphasised that activities such as classes and songs contradicting Islamic faith should not be organised.