IUML works closely with SDPI, radical Islamist groups in Kerala: CPI(M)

Kochi: The CPI(M) in Kerala on Wednesday accused the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) of working closely with SDPI and radical Islamist organisations in the state.

CPI(M) state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, speaking to reporters here, alleged that the "IUML works closely with SDPI and radical Islamist organisations." He also alleged that the Congress was able to "survive" in the state due to the support of IUML, which actually "holds the reins of the UDF coalition".

Balakrishnan's remarks came barely a week after senior CPI(M) leader and newly-appointed LDF convenor E P Jayarajan, who had initially sent feelers to IUML, had backtracked from his statement saying that no one has invited the key UDF partner to the ruling front.

The CPI(M) state secretary's statement prompted IUML national general secretary and senior MLA P K Kunhalikutty to respond that there was no point to such statements by the Left leader when "his party is surviving in West Bengal only with the help of Congress".

He also said that outside Kerala, the CPI(M) needs Congress support to find a foothold anywhere else in the country. The IUML leader further said the Congress was the only party strong enough to lead the secular forces in the country.

CPI(M)'s Balakrishnan said the Congress was being "carried" by the IUML in Kerala and that the former was able to continue functioning in the state only due to the support of the Muslim League. The CPI(M) also alleged that the IUML has links to the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI), a political offshoot of the Popular Front of India (PFI), and various radical Islamist organisations. He further alleged that by its actions, the IUML was also allowing the RSS to exploit the situation. LDF convenor Jayarajan had backtracked from his statement saying that no one has invited the key UDF partner to the LDF fold.