Kozhikode: The tussle between Samastha Kerala Jem-Iyyathul Ulama (Samastha) and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has escalated. IUML state general secretary PMA Salam’s thinly veiled attack of Samastha president Syed Muhammad Jifri Muthukoya Thangal has acted as the trigger. 

Salam highlighted that certain Samastha leaders have affiliations with the CPM. These comments were widely interpreted as an indirect criticism of Muthukoya Thangal, who maintains a good rapport with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Samastha responded with a strong and unprecedented rebuke, terming Salam's comments as having crossed boundaries. While leaders from the Muthukoya Thangal faction expressed concerns, the IUML is yet to address them. Interestingly, IUML also acknowledged Salam's explanation that his remarks were not directed at Muthukoya Thangal. Even IUML loyalists within Samastha condemned the remarks and some expected Salam to issue an apology. However, as of now, no such actions have been taken.

IUML in a fix

Meanwhile, a section of IUML leaders have been opposing Panakkad Syed Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal’s stand. They also maintain that Samastha’s regard for the Panakkad family is eroding. The camp is of the view that IUML should have its own stand and need not have to bow to the interests of Samastha. Many of them attacked the leaders for ‘whitewashing communism’. 

The developments resonate with the situation faced by IUML in 1989. Kanthapuram AP Aboobacker Musliyar-led faction argued for Samastha’s independence. IUML then tactically acted to create a split in Samastha loyalists. The party managed to keep the majority of Samastha loyalists with them. However, now the majority of Samastha loyalists are with Jifri Muthukoya Thangal. As a result, IUML has a tough task ahead.