Saji Cherian’s ‘not hearing Azan in extremists living country’ remark lands him in controversy

Kochi: Saji Cherian, a senior CPI(M) leader and state Minister in Kerala, who is embroiled in controversy over his comment about not hearing the Azan (the Muslim call to prayer) during his visits to Saudi Arabia, has also faced sharp criticism for his thoughts on extremists living in the Muslim country.

During a public function in Kochi, Cherian expressed surprise at not hearing the call to prayer from mosques in Saudi Arabia, while sharing his thoughts about the country where extremists with extreme religious beliefs were living.

However, he later clarified that his comment about the Azan was based on misinformation and aimed to highlight the religious harmony and inclusive approach of the people in Saudi Arabia.

Cherian's comments sparked criticism from various quarters, with opponents accusing him of undermining communal harmony. V T Balram, the Vice President of the Congress party in the state, accused CPI(M) leaders of making statements that could potentially disrupt the delicate fabric of Kerala's social unity.

Balram expressed concerns that such statements could be exploited by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to further their agenda.

Last year, Cherian was compelled to resign as a minister following his controversial observations about the Constitution, which were deemed to be derogatory. He was later reinstated after a six-month period.

At a party event in Pathanamthitta, he had criticized the Constitution, stating that it endorsed the exploitation of the common people and was written to benefit a select few.

Cherian, who also oversees the fisheries portfolio, took to social media to clarify his Saudi Arabia remarks, explaining that his intent was to highlight the moderate approach to religious ceremonies and the respect for other communities that he witnessed during his trip. He admitted that his claim of not hearing the call to prayer was based on incorrect information.