K. S. Satheesan Criticises Kanthapuram’s Circular Advising Women to Avoid Men on Stage

The circular, issued by Mr. Kanthapuram, advised women to avoid sharing stages or public spaces with unrelated men during religious celebrations in Kerala. It was distributed to local religious bodies and community groups. The directive was seen as discriminatory and out of step with modern Kerala’s progressive values. Chief Minister K. S. Satheesan publicly denounced the circular, calling it unsuitable for contemporary Kerala and emphasizing the state’s commitment to gender equality. The incident has sparked debate over gender roles in religious spaces across the state.