Kanthapuram urges political parties to uphold secularism 

Grand Mufti A.P. Aboobacker Musliar urges political parties to protect secularism, reject communalism, and support religious freedom.

Grand Mufti Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliar has called on political parties to take greater responsibility for preserving the country’s secular fabric.

Speaking at the inaugural session of the Sunni Yuvajana Sangham (SYS) Kerala Youth Conference in Thrissur on Friday, the Mufti stressed the urgent need to counter forces spreading communalism and hatred.

He urged people to reject divisive ideologies, pointing out that the majority of Keralites remain committed to secular values. He cautioned against branding supporters of secularism as communal.

Condemning recent attacks on Christmas celebrations in various parts of the country, Mr. Kanthapuram expressed concerns over the religious freedom of minorities in the country. He also registered solidarity with victims of oppression worldwide, particularly ‘minorities who are facing state-backed violence in Bangladesh and people of Palestine facing human rights violations under Israeli invasion.’ He reaffirmed the community’s commitment to standing with the oppressed and advocating justice.

Mr. Kanthapuram also highlighted the Sunni community’s historical alignment with India’s democratic and secular ideals, underscoring its dedication to pluralism and interfaith harmony. He called upon political and community organisations to reject communalism, warning of its destabilising effects on society.

American scholar Yahya Rhodus delivered the keynote address. SYS State president Sayyid Twaha Thangal Saqafi presided over the function.