The Muslim Youth League, the youth wing of the Indian Union Muslim League has filed a police complaint on Monday against Left MLA KT Jaleel, following his controversial remarks linking gold smuggling at Karipur airport to the Muslim community.
According to a Youth League leader, the complaint was submitted by the Tirurangadi constituency committee to the District Police Chief, urging that a case be registered against Jaleel for allegedly inciting religious discord.
CPI(M) state secretary MV Govindan remarked that no community should be associated with smuggling. However, he indirectly supported Jaleel’s stance by emphasizing that community leaders must address misconceptions among some people who view smuggling as acceptable behavior.
Jaleel ignited controversy on Sunday by asserting that a majority of individuals involved in gold smuggling at the Malappuram international airport are from the Muslim community. His statements drew sharp criticism from the IUML and dissident legislator PV Anvar.
In a detailed Facebook post, Jaleel claimed that many Muslims involved in crimes like gold smuggling and hawala do not consider these activities “irreligious.” He urged community leaders to step in and raise awareness among those engaged in such illegal activities.
In response, members of the Muslim Youth League organized a march to the Malappuram district police chief’s office on Monday, alleging a targeted effort to portray the Muslim-majority district as a hub for criminal activities.
The police intervened and used water cannons to disperse the protesters.
