In Kerala, Muslims are taking important steps to restore dignity and civil rights to Dalits, who have faced discrimination for a long time. Recently, the Waqf board decided to end unfair practices at the Puthoorpallijuma mosque, which has been around for over 400 years. The mosque had rules that prevented certain communities, like the Ossan (barbers), Labba, and Muaddin (mosque workers), from being members or voting in the mosque committee. This change is significant as it allows these communities to participate fully in mosque activities. Activist Saddique Mampad highlighted that these old rules were based on family traditions and not common in other mosques.
The Struggle for Equality
The Ossan community, particularly affected by these discriminatory practices, organised themselves in Kottayam to demand equal rights. Their struggle intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic when they faced unfair treatment from the mosque committee. They began a movement to raise awareness and sought support from various groups. The Waqf board’s decision to grant membership and voting rights is a victory for their efforts. Mampad noted that while the Labba and Muaddin communities were also excluded, they were not as marginalised as the Ossan community. This change represents a step towards equality and justice for all members of the community.
A Broader Issue of Social Stratification
In Kerala, the Muslim community is divided into different social groups, with the Thangals at the top, claiming descent from the Prophet. Below them are the Koyas and Moplas, while the Malabaris and Dalits, including the Ossan and Pusalan fishing community, face the most exclusion. Sociologist Khaled Ansari emphasised that excluding any group from spiritual and social rights is wrong. Raees Mohammad, a member of the Dalit Camera, shared the struggles of the Ossan community, highlighting their daily challenges and social isolation. While some progress is being made in Kerala, the situation for Dalit communities in other parts of India remains dire, with many living in poverty and facing severe discrimination.
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