Kerala: Indian Union Muslim League secretary Salaam rejects gender equality concept, calls it ‘cheap popularity’

Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) general secretary P.M.A. Salaam said that the Muslim League does not agree with the concept of man-woman equality; however, the world has not fully accepted it either. Speaking to media persons in Malappuram on Wednesday, he stated that some people raise such arguments merely for cheap popularity. He emphasized that what men and women need is social equality, not man-woman equality. The Muslim League, he asserted, stands for gender equality. He added that there is no need to raise arguments that are not logically sound.

The Muslim League leader Salaam questioned whether men and women are truly equal. He cited examples such as seat reservations for men and women on buses and separate competitions for men and women in the Olympics.

However, right-thinking individuals have strongly objected to Salaam’s statement. They believe he is making claims that even religious leaders do not dare to voice. They have demanded that the Muslim League clarify whether Salaam is speaking on behalf of the party.

Salaam’s statement comes close on the heels of a remark made by a prominent Muslim cleric last week, who stated that workout sessions involving both men and women in public are unacceptable.

It is a well-known fact that in the Muslim-majority Malappuram district, the Muslim League does not display images of its women candidates during elections. Instead, they showcase pictures of the candidates’ husbands, appealing for votes on behalf of “Sri X’s wife.” .”  IUML is a major player in opposition alliance, the United Democratic Front (UDF) with a representation of 15 MLA’s in the Assembly.

Meanwhile, reports suggest that a leader of the Muslim Students Federation, the student wing of the Muslim League, has objected to Salaam’s statement.

Salaam’s remarks come at a time when several social reformers from within the Muslim community, as well as members of the ‘Ex-Muslim’ group, have been raising objections to outdated practices prevailing in the community. They have been voicing their concerns during TV debates.