Like 'gold kept safely in box', women must remain in homes: Islamic cleric in Kerala

A prominent Islamic cleric in Kerala has reignited debate over women’s roles in public life after comparing women to precious gold ornaments that must remain safely inside the home to preserve their dignity and value. Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad, widely known as the Grand Mufti of India and the spiritual leader of the Kanthapuram faction of the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, made the remarks during an Islamic conference in Kochi. He argued that the Islamic practice of purdah, or veiling, is intended to protect women from moral and social harm by restricting their presence in public spaces.

Speaking at the event, Ahmad stated that women should remain confined within their homes, citing Quranic verses as justification. He drew a parallel between women and gold jewelry, saying that just as gold must be kept in a box to maintain its beauty and purity, women must be shielded from public exposure to prevent moral decay. “If the necklace has to retain its beauty, it has to be kept safely inside a box,” he said, using the analogy to emphasize his point. He contrasted this with items like stone grinders, which he said could be left outside without consequence, as they are less vulnerable to damage.

The cleric’s comments come amid growing criticism of a recent circular from the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, which stated that women should not be present on public platforms. The circular, issued by the state’s premier council of Sunni-Shafi Islamic scholars, has drawn strong backlash from women political leaders and activists who argue that such restrictions are regressive and undermine women’s rights. The Kanthapuram faction, led by Ahmad, has defended the stance, asserting that these views have been upheld by religious scholars for over a century and remain a priority despite objections.

Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad holds significant influence within India’s Sunni Muslim community and is often referred to as the Grand Mufti of India, though his title is not officially recognized by the government. The term “mufti” refers to an Islamic scholar qualified to issue legal opinions, or fatwas, on religious matters. Ahmad is regarded as a key religious authority in South Asia, and his statements often carry weight within conservative circles.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between traditional religious interpretations and modern calls for gender equality in India. Critics argue that such statements reflect a patriarchal mindset that restricts women’s freedom and participation in public life. Supporters, however, view the remarks as a reinforcement of Islamic teachings aimed at preserving family and social values.

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