The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday accused the ruling Congress in Kerala of preferring “sharia over Constitution” after a youth announced plans to open an “Islam-friendly gym” in the state. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari alleged that the Congress is “bending to the diktats” of its ally, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML).
BJP's Allegations
“In Kerala, Congress is being remote-controlled by IUML. It is allowing sharia-compliant gyms on IUML's directions. This clearly shows that the Congress has chosen sharia over Constitution,” Bhandari said in a video posted on his X account. He further stated, “It is proven clearly that because of Muslim appeasement, the Congress party is now keeping on back, and believing in sharia over Constitution... Because of Muslim appeasement, the Congress party is becoming a threat to security and safety of Hindus in Kerala.”
Political Context
The IUML, with 22 MLAs, is the second-largest constituent of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala. The UDF holds 102 seats in the 140-member state legislative assembly. The controversy centers on a fitness facility in Puthunagaram, Palakkad district, which recently announced plans to transform into an “Islam-friendly gym” operating under “Sharia-based guidelines.”
Proposed Guidelines
The announcement, posted on the Instagram account “Nawaz Muthu T” and later deleted, stated that the fitness center, operational for 15 years, would introduce new rules. These include prohibiting music inside the facility, designating separate workout timings for men and women, and enforcing a dress code that ensures members’ “awrah” — body parts that Islamic teachings require to be covered — remains concealed during exercise. Additionally, men and women would not be allowed to work out together, with separate schedules arranged for each group. Women members would be required to wear attire, including a hijab, that covers the body according to religious guidelines.
Reactions
The announcement has sparked debate, drawing mixed reactions. Supporters describe it as an effort to create a fitness environment accommodating religious preferences, while critics question the implications of operating a gym based on faith-specific guidelines. The BJP’s strong condemnation highlights the political tensions surrounding religious practices in public spaces in Kerala.
