Kerala Islamic scholar Kanthapuram AP Aboobacker Musliyar on Saturday reiterated his stand on Islamic law, saying religious rulings are not to be changed to suit political parties, individuals or public opinion. His remarks also came a day before his scheduled meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who has publicly differed with some of Kanthapuram’s views, particularly on women’s rights.

Kanthapuram made the remarks while inaugurating the organising committee formation meeting for the Samastha centenary celebrations in Chemmad, Malappuram.

He said Islamic laws would not be altered based on anyone’s opinion or preference. Religious scholars, he added, do not issue rulings according to the wishes of individuals or political parties.

“Islamic laws are not something that should be changed and stated differently for political parties or individuals,” Kanthapuram said.

He maintained that whatever Samastha had stated on religious matters had been arrived at only after detailed consideration, examination and deliberation.

He also said Samastha scholars had never been in a situation where they had to change a position they had already expressed.

Stand on Shariat

Kanthapuram had earlier faced criticism over remarks concerning the public appearance of Muslim women. His statement that bringing women on to public platforms would lead to “great destruction” drew reactions from several prominent figures, including Kerala Assembly Speaker?

Earlier, Kanthapuram's remarks that bringing women onto public platforms would lead to "great destruction" had triggered reactions from several prominent people, including Chief Minister VD Satheesan, who described the view as an idea from the 19th century.

Amid the controversy, Kanthapuram later clarified his position, saying he was not someone who advocated burying women or confining them. He also pointed to the education and opportunities being provided to women.

Speaking at an International Milad Conference in Kozhikode on September 5, Kanthapuram had said Shariat would continue to be proclaimed even in the face of opposition.

“When we speak of Shariat, it is the Shariat of Allah—the Shariat taught by the Messenger,” he said.

He said the Prophet had taught that a group upholding Shariat would remain until the Day of Judgement and continue to speak about it.

“No matter who opposes it, the Shariat of Allah—the Shariat shown by the Prophet—will continue to be proclaimed here,” he said.

Anwar Ibrahim differs

The latest remarks come at a significant juncture, with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim scheduled to meet Kanthapuram on Sunday.

Anwar, who arrived to attend the BRICS summit, had also publicly differed with the Islamic scholar’s position. He said he did not agree with all of Kanthapuram’s views and pointed out that Malaysia is a country that provides equal rights to women.