The prominent Islamic body Samastha has publicly criticized Muslim League leader and Perambra MLA Fathima Thahlia for lighting a traditional lamp (nilavilakku) during a private restaurant inauguration in her constituency. The incident, which went viral on social media, has reignited the long-standing debate in Kerala regarding Muslim public representatives participating in traditional lamp-lighting ceremonies. Samastha’s Mushawara meeting discussed the issue, emphasizing that un-Islamic customs and rituals of other religions must be avoided.

Following the video’s release, several religious leaders expressed strong disapproval. Wisdom Islamic Organisation State General Secretary T.K. Ashraf and scholar Hussain Salafi criticized the action, suggesting that Muslim political leaders often compromise on religious boundaries for political acceptance and electoral gains. Additionally, Samastha leader Abdul Hameed Faizy Ambalakkadavu posted an indirect criticism on Facebook, accusing leaders of crossing religious boundaries while those responsible for correcting them remain silent.

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On the other hand, noted writer and social commentator M.N. Karassery strongly defended Fathima Thahlia, calling the controversy completely unnecessary. He highlighted Kerala’s long history of cultural synthesis, noting that lamps were historically used in Muslim households as well. Religious scholar Basheer Patel Thazham also supported this view, pointing out that historical places like the Idiyangara Sheikh Masjid in Kozhikode have a tradition of lighting lamps, and argued that lighting a lamp as a cultural symbol in a secular event does not violate religious tenets.