Kasaragod: A leader of the Women’s League has allegedly used the term “munafiq” against the Left Democratic Front candidate in the Kasaragod Assembly constituency in poll-bound Kerala.
The Arabic word “munafiq” refers to a “hypocrite” or someone who pretends in matters of faith in an Islamic context.
Women’s League district secretary Aishath Farsana allegedly made the remark while addressing a recent campaign meeting, targeting LDF candidate Shanavas Padoor.
The Women’s League is the women’s wing of the Indian Union Muslim League, a key ally in the Congress-led United Democratic Front.
In a purported video of the event, Farsana is seen accusing Padoor of frequently switching political allegiances, claiming he carries “different flags at different times of the day” to secure electoral advantage. She is also heard referring to a past remark by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, suggesting that people in Kasaragod know how to respond to such individuals.
Reacting on Sunday, Padoor said he respects women and described the comment as possibly a “slip of the tongue made in excitement.” However, he alleged that such remarks are often part of efforts by certain political fronts to influence and mislead Muslim women voters during elections.
He further stated that the comment amounts to a violation of the election code of conduct and confirmed that a complaint has been filed with the Election Commission.
Padoor also rejected allegations of having links with the Bharatiya Janata Party, calling them “politically motivated.” He said such claims usually surface just days before polling, but in this instance appeared earlier, reflecting the “anxiety” of his opponents.
Sources in the LDF described the speech as a deliberate attempt at “character assassination” and said legal action would be pursued.
Polling for the Kerala Assembly elections is scheduled for April 9.
With PTI inputs