Kozhikode, March 19: Muslim organizations in Kerala have called upon the Election Commission of India (ECI) to alter the dates of the first and second phases of the Lok Sabha polls, slated for April 19 and April 26 respectively, citing the clash with Friday prayers. The demand, issued in a joint statement by these organizations, underscores the concerns that a significant portion of Kerala’s Muslim population, constituting approximately 30% of the state’s inhabitants, might face obstacles in exercising their voting rights on a Friday.
According to the statement released on Sunday, a substantial number of Muslim voters would be precluded from fully participating in the electoral process if it coincides with Friday prayers. The organizations contend that such scenario would amount to discrimination and a breach of their constitutional entitlements. They also highlight the predicament faced by thousands of believers assigned to election duties and booth agent roles, who would be unable to attend the Friday congregational prayers due to their commitments.
In addition to urging the ECI to reconsider the polling dates, the organizations have called upon the Kerala government to formally petition the commission in support of their demand.
Signatories to the demand include prominent figures such as Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal from the Indian Union Muslim League, Sunni leaders Syed Jifri Muthukoya Thangal and Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar, T.P. Abdullakkoya Madani representing the Kerala Nadvathul Mujahideen, P. Mujeeb Rahman of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, and P. Unneen from the Muslim Service Society, among others.
