Muslim League Hits Out at CPIM Over Leader’s Hijab Remark; Party Distances From Comment – News18

CPIM leader K. Anil Kumar’s comment on the hijab has snowballed into controversy, with the Muslim League hitting out at him.

Anil Kumar, CPIM state leader, said, “We believe there are girls in Malappuram who will say no to putting the hijab on their heads, as part of the Communist Party existing in Kerala and as part of their education. This party’s role is not small in fostering independent thoughts.”

The Indian Union Muslim League has strongly criticized this comment and stated that the CPIM should explain.

PMA Salam, State General Secretary of IUML, said, “CPIM is encroaching upon the beliefs of the people. A leader has openly stated that they have been working to remove the hijab from the heads of Muslim girls and that they have succeeded in doing so. A state council member of CPIM is making this statement. Why are they intruding into the beliefs of the people?’

Salam added: “A prominent leader of the Marxist party is disclosing what they have done in the state. The girls, who wear hijab have not abandoned it, and the new generation is standing firm with it. This is not his personal opinion. He is publicly stating that CPIM has been working to remove the hijab from the heads of Muslim girls. Even after this, CPIM leaders have not commented on the matter. Those responsible in the party should clarify.”

However, Anil Kumar did not receive much support for his statement from the party.

CPIM State Secretary M V Govindan said: “We don’t wish to dictate what kind of dress people should wear or criticize people for their attire. Dressing is each individual’s choice; it’s part of one’s individual freedom. The Constitution has granted us that right. Anil Kumar’s comment differs from the party’s stance. The party is explicitly stating that such comments are unnecessary. The party’s position is clear.”