Vanitha League founder leader and national vice-president KP Mariyumma slammed former national general secretary Noorbina Rasheed for her remarks against the Indian Muslim League (IUML) candidate in Perambra, Fatima Thahiliya, clarifying that the comments were personal and did not reflect the position of the organization.
According to Ms Mariyumma, Ms Noorbina’s reaction appeared to stem from disappointment at being denied a seat in the April 9 assembly elections. “Her interests are personal and her remarks violate party discipline,” she said.
At a press meet in Kozhikode on Thursday, Ms Noorbina announced her resignation as the national general secretary of the Vanitha League, allegedly after she was denied a ticket. She also opposed former leader Haritha Fatima Thahiliya’s candidacy in Perambra, saying leaders who built the organization “through blood, sweat and tears” were being overlooked.
Ms. Mariyumma dismissed the remarks as “unwarranted and irresponsible” and said they did not represent the views of the Vanitha League. “She spoke without consulting state or national leadership. These are her personal views,” she said.
Emphasizing that the party has supported Ms. Noorbina over the years, Ms. Mariyumma pointed out that she has been given several key opportunities, including two terms as a member of the Kerala State Commission for Women, two terms as a Kozhikode Corporation councilor and a party ticket in the 2021 Assembly elections. party put in,” Mariyumma said.
Recalling the beginnings of the organization, Ms. Mariyumma said she led the formation of the first district unit of the Vanith League in 1991, with P. Kulusu heading the Kozhikode unit the following year. “Leaders like us have a much higher status, yet we stand firmly behind the party’s decisions,” she said.
He welcomes the choice of IUML
She lauded the selection of the IUML candidate in Perambra, terming it a “courageous and thoughtful decision”. “Recruiting a young and dynamic leader like Fatima Thahiliya is a forward-looking move and is already having a strong impact,” said Ms. Mariyumma.
Emphasizing the need to nurture new leaders, she said: “More capable and educated young women are coming into the party. It is our duty to support and guide them, not undermine them. What Ms. Noorbina has done is against the principles of the Vanitha League.”
She said Vanitha League and IUML will not be weakened by the departure of a single leader. “History has shown us that institutions transcend individuals,” she said.
Ms. Mariyumma expressed confidence in Ms. Thahiliya, saying the candidate’s academic background and maturity gave her an edge. “She connects well with people. It is our collective responsibility to stand by her and ensure her victory in this important election,” she said.
Published – 05 Apr 2026 21:02 IST
