The cold war between the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and a section of the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama leadership over influence in the orthodox Muslim community appears to be easing, even as fundamental differences remain.
At the heart of the tension was the unspoken struggle for authority and influence, whether it was Samastha President Syed Jifri Muthukoya Thangal or IUML State President Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal in shaping community affairs.
While the two organizations largely maintained a working relationship, a small section in the Samastha constantly objected to the perceived dominance of the IUML, leading to regular disputes. Even now, a certain degree of anti-IUML sentiment persists in this small segment of Samastha.
Recent political developments have strengthened the position of the IUML. In back-to-back local body and assembly elections held over four months, the party secured decisive victories in Malabar, particularly Malappuram, strengthening its claim to political dominance.
Party insiders say the results have shown influence more clearly, with some in the IUML now believing that objections from sections of the Samastha can be largely ignored. There is also a growing view that the party should not spend its time on intra-community disputes and should instead focus on its core political work.
At the same time, a change of tone is noticeable in the wider circles of Samastha. Several leaders are now more openly acknowledging the IUML’s key role in the political landscape and its likely importance in forming and running the incoming government.
Earlier, President Samasthy maintained a direct link with outgoing Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, indicating some degree of political influence. This phase is now generally considered to be over, with changing political realities suggesting a stronger role for the IUML in the next five-year cycle.
Despite occasional tensions and some lingering anti-IUML sentiments in Samasthy, IUML leaders avoided open confrontation. Even during events such as the Samastha centenary celebrations, where the party had a limited role, it chose restraint over escalation.
This cautious approach is now seen as a strategic decision that helped maintain stability within the wider community. The recent election results have further strengthened the position of IUML in both political and social spheres.
Published – 12 May 2026 21:36 IST
