IUML treads carefully in Kerala coalition over Waqf board stand

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has asked its ministers in Kerala's United Democratic Front (UDF) government to proceed cautiously when supporting coalition policies, amid internal and external criticism over the party's stance on the Waqf board issue and other matters.

The IUML, a key constituent of the UDF, faces pressure from Muslim organisations and its own base after the state government told the Kerala High Court it would reconstitute the State Waqf Board in line with the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The amendment mandates the inclusion of two non-Muslim members on the board—a provision the IUML has opposed.

Waqf Minister N. Samsudheen's statement that the government would abide by the law has drawn scrutiny, as the IUML has consistently argued against the mandatory non-Muslim representation, describing it as an ideological compromise.

The High Court had frozen the existing board's functioning, noting the absence of a Shia member and two non-Muslim members as required under the amended law. The board has challenged this order in the Supreme Court.

The IUML supports reconstituting the board, maintaining that the current panel—appointed during the previous Left Democratic Front (LDF) government—does not meet the eligibility criteria under the amended law. The party believes that chairman K.S. Hamza and members A.A. Rahim and Umar Faizi Mukkam should not continue.

While backing a lawful recomposition, the IUML continues to oppose the mandatory inclusion of two non-Muslims and has challenged that provision in the Supreme Court. The party states its opposition is ideological, whereas its support for reconstitution stems from the need to comply with legal requirements applicable to all.

The IUML's cautious approach reflects the delicate balancing act within the UDF coalition, where the party must uphold its principles while maintaining governmental stability.