Thiruvananthapuram: Palayam Imam Dr V.P. Suhaib Moulavi has rejected recent remarks by Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar opposing women’s participation in public life, saying Islam does not impose a blanket restriction on women going outside their homes.

Speaking during Friday’s Jumu'ah khutbah, the Imam cited Quranic verses and Hadith to argue that Islam does not discriminate between men and women and does not prohibit women from stepping out for their needs or taking part in social activities.

He said unnecessary restrictions should not be imposed on women and pointed to references in Islamic history to support his position. According to the Imam, discussions about women’s participation in public life existed even during the time of Prophet Muhammad, who had explained that women were permitted to go outside their homes.

The Imam also referred to Aisha, the Prophet’s wife, saying she had played a prominent role in Islamic history and participated in a battle. He further said women were entrusted with important responsibilities during the reign of Caliph Umar, including roles related to overseeing markets.

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The remarks come amid a controversy over statements made by Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar against women entering public life. Kanthapuram had said that bringing women into the public sphere would lead to serious consequences and that women were advised not to go outside out of respect and protection. He had also defended the purdah system and said women should remain within the home.