Mishab
The Students Islamic Organisation (SIO) Kannur organised a mass rally and solidarity gathering in support of Palestine on Sunday, August 31, as part of its month-long campaign Tahya Filasteen (“Long Live Palestine”).
The rally, which began near the New Bus Stand in Kannur, saw the participation of over 700 protestors. Demonstrations included symbolic depictions of martyrs’ bodies, Palestinian resistance symbols, and a photography spot showing a journalist under attack. The solidarity gathering followed at Town Square, Kannur, starting at 5:45 Pm.
Speaking at the event, SIO Kannur Secretary Muhammed Iqbal said, “As protests are taking place worldwide, from Australia to London, this gathering in Kannur holds global significance.”
The event highlighted the ongoing starvation in Gaza, which has killed more than 300 people, including over 100 children. It also criticised Arab leaders’ silence and called on Muslim community leaders to take responsibility.
Shibin Rahman, Secretary of SIO Kerala, who inaugurated the event, remarked, “We are witnessing the live telecasting of injustices where people are lured in the name of humanitarian aid and then shot.”
Despite heavy rain, the protest continued. The venue was decorated with Palestinian flags, posters, and symbolic items such as the kufiya, watermelon, olives, and keys.
CAC Member of SIO India, Wahid Chullippara, praised the organisers, saying, “In the months after October 7, news of Gaza’s genocide drew global attention. Today, it has lost its newsworthiness. This event is a strong reminder to reflect on our own responsibilities.”
A key highlight was the participation of Palestinian poet and writer Dr. Alaa Qatarawi, who lost four children in the conflict. “Gaza is under genocide. We don’t know where to go. No homes, mosques, or shops remain. It’s embarrassing that even after two years of Toofaanul Aqsa, Arab nations remain silent,” she said.
Other speakers included Nidhal Siraj (President, SIO Kannur), T.K. Muhammadali (President, JIH Kannur), Mufti Ameen Mahi, Anoop V.R. (Social Activist), and Hafees.
