Kerala Clerics' Body Issues Key Demands Ahead of Assembly Elections
In a significant move ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Kerala, the influential Muslim clerics' organization, Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, has put forth a series of demands. The body, closely associated with the Congress-ally Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), passed resolutions during a centenary conference held in Kasaragod, which concluded on Sunday. These demands include the bifurcation of the Muslim-majority Malappuram district, extended public holidays for Eid festivals, adjustments to the academic calendar, and the establishment of an Arabic university.
Demand for Malappuram District Bifurcation
The clerics' body emphasized that the bifurcation of Malappuram district is essential for effective administration and equitable distribution of resources. With a population of approximately 45 lakh, the district's size poses challenges that could be mitigated through division. This demand echoes past proposals, such as the 2024 call by SAMASTHA leader Musthafa Mundupara for a separate Malabar state encompassing Malappuram and other North Kerala districts. Historically, Malappuram district was formed in 1969 under the Communist government led by EMS Namboodiripad, with IUML as a coalition partner.
Call for Extended Eid Holidays and Academic Calendar Reforms
In another resolution, the conference sought three-day public holidays for both Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Currently, Kerala observes only one official holiday for Eid and other festivals. The clerics pointed to Gulf countries, where extended holidays are common for Eid celebrations, arguing that Kerala should adopt a similar approach to accommodate religious observances. Additionally, the organization demanded that the government revise timetables for educational institutions and examinations to avoid conflicts with religious requirements, ensuring that students can participate in faith-based activities without academic hindrance.
Proposal for Arabic University and Research Center
The conference also resolved to push for the establishment of an Arabic and foreign languages university in Kerala. This institution would be linked to madrasas and mosque-based religious classes, aiming to enhance educational opportunities in these fields. Furthermore, the clerics' body demanded the creation of a research center named after Mamburam Thangal at the University of Calicut. This center would focus on research into Indo-Arab cultural exchange and Thangal's contributions to the Malabar region, recognizing his role as a prominent scholar during the British era.
Political Context and Implications
These demands come shortly after senior IUML leader K M Shaji expressed confidence in the party's electoral prospects, suggesting that a change in government could restore benefits allegedly lost to the community under the current Left rule. The resolutions highlight the clerics' efforts to influence policy ahead of the polls, potentially shaping voter sentiment in key constituencies. As the election season heats up, these issues are likely to spark debates on administrative efficiency, religious accommodations, and educational reforms in Kerala.
