Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan delivered a strong message reaffirming the Left Democratic Front's (LDF) unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of minority communities in the state. He made these remarks while addressing the Samastha centenary message rally at Putharikandam Maidan in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday.
Left's Historical Legacy of Supporting Minorities
The Chief Minister invoked history to underline the Left's consistent stance. He pointed out that it was the first EMS Namboodiripad-led government that revoked the ban on mosque construction imposed after the Malabar Rebellion. Furthermore, he highlighted that the same administration was responsible for establishing numerous schools in the Malabar region.
"The Left has the tradition of standing firm against communal forces," Vijayan stated, adding that the party is dedicated to fostering an environment where minorities can live with self-respect. He specifically mentioned the creation of Malappuram district as a landmark action demonstrating this support, acknowledging the criticisms the government faced during its formation.
Secularism and the Role of Samastha
Vijayan praised the Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulama, the influential body of Muslim scholars, for its significant role in promoting a secular society in Kerala. He noted that the organization, under the leadership of its President Sayyid Muhammad Jifri Muthukoya Thangal, has consistently worked to maintain peace and communal harmony.
"The views of Jifri Muthukoya Thangal reflect adherence to secularism. During times when communalism has raised its head, the organization has stood on the side of humanity," the CM said. He described the present time as one requiring increased vigilance, where the nation's unity in diversity faces constant challenges.
Government's Assurance and Electoral Integrity
The Chief Minister assured that the state government is always prepared to address the concerns of minorities and progress together. He emphasized that protecting minorities is not an election-centric strategy but a core principle, evident from the LDF government's actions.
Echoing a concern raised by Samastha President Thangal, the CM indirectly referenced reports of potential voter list exclusions. Thangal, at a prior press conference, had stated that over 24 lakh people were reportedly left out of the new voter list revision in Kerala. He urged authorities to ensure no eligible citizen is omitted, as it weakens the democratic framework.
Samastha's Centenary Celebrations and Future Plans
The rally was part of Samastha's centenary message journey, which commenced from Nagercoil and received a reception in the capital. The yatra, led by Thangal, will tour various districts before concluding in Mangaluru on December 24.
Looking ahead, the organization announced that its centenary international conference will be held from February 4 to 8, 2026, in Kasaragod. Thangal highlighted Samastha's century-long work in safeguarding traditional Islamic principles and leading educational initiatives that contribute to the country's communal harmony.
In his concluding remarks, CM Vijayan asserted, "Whenever communalism has risen, the Left has stood strong. We assure that we will continue to do so." This statement reinforced his government's pledge to preserve the secular fabric of Kerala and the nation.
