Kerala politics: IUML caught between ideology and coalition discipline

Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan visited the residence of Indian Union Muslim League State President Panakkada Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal. | Photo credit: ANI

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), the second largest component of the United Democratic Front (UDF), is facing a politically difficult phase in the first days of the new VD Satheesan-led government with two key political issues putting the party in a tight spot.

Within weeks of the UDF taking office, the coalition was embroiled in controversies over PM SHRI’s education program and the decision to cut taxes on soft drinks. Both decisions are contrary to IUML’s long-standing positions.

IUML state president Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal said alcohol will remain a social problem regardless of its strength. He also downplayed the budget’s mention of tax breaks for low-alcohol drinks, calling it a routine financial mention that should not be over-interpreted.

He reiterated that the UDF’s declared policy would be abstinence from alcohol and said any decision on the matter would follow discussions within the coalition. His remarks reflected the party’s limitations in balancing its ideological position and coalition discipline.

The tax decision has drawn criticism from various quarters, with the IUML also holding five ministerial posts in the cabinet. Suprabhatham, spokesperson of Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, the largest body of traditional Islamic clerics in the state, also criticized the move, calling it worrisome.

The liquor issue is expected to remain politically sensitive for the IUML throughout the government’s tenure, given its traditional opposition to alcohol consumption.

A similar challenge has been raised over the PM SHRI scheme. While in opposition, the IUML strongly opposed the program and rejected it outright. However, within the governing coalition, the party took a more restrained stance.

General Education Minister N. Samsudheen, one of the five IUML ministers, now heads a cabinet committee to look into the implementation of the scheme. The development marks a shift from the party’s earlier stance as the government tries to match central funding requirements tied to the programme.

The Chief Minister has indicated that the state cannot give up central funds linked to PM SHRI, effectively limiting policy flexibility. Within this framework, the IUML now occupies a position shaped by coalition commitments where its ministers are expected to implement decisions that the party previously opposed.

Published – 25 Jun 2026 20:57 IST