The increasing trend of promoting unscientific childbirth practices, particularly home births without medical supervision, has sparked widespread concern in Kerala following the tragic death of a young Muslim woman in Malappuram district.
The deceased, identified as Asma (35), a resident of Koparambil in Perumbavoor, died of hemorrhage after delivering her fifth child at home. Her husband, Sirajuddin (39), a native of Vandanam, Alappuzha and a religious preacher, has been arrested by Malappuram police on charges of murder and destruction of evidence.
According to police sources, although home birth itself is not illegal, it becomes a criminal offense if the mother or child is endangered due to lack of medical care. In this case, Sirajuddin, who had studied only up to the seventh grade and was self-trained in acupuncture, allegedly forced his wife to give birth at home without medical assistance, leading to her death.
The incident has once again brought to light a growing subculture in Kerala that glorifies unassisted home births. Videos and social media content have surfaced showing ceremonies where women who gave birth at home are honored and described as “brave.” One such event, reportedly held in Malappuram, has resurfaced online amid the recent tragedy. These videos are criticised for spreading fear about hospital deliveries and promoting dangerous practices under the guise of religious childbirth methods.
Adding to the controversy, reports have emerged about squads in Kerala encouraging home births and actively campaigning against child vaccinations. Allegations have also surfaced regarding the issuance of religious fatwas in Malappuram district discouraging institutional childbirth and modern medical practices.
The incident has provoked strong reactions from medical professionals, social activists, and the general public, who have condemned the spread of unscientific and potentially fatal practices.
The rise of Islamic fundamentalist practices in Kerala is endangering women’s lives by promoting unscientific childbirth methods. Such regressive ideologies undermine public health and strip women of safe, medical care during childbirth.
