IUML to seek larger seat share in UDF following its local body performance

Swiftly acting to work out the modalities of its electoral road map for the upcoming Assembly elections, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leadership met in Kozhikode on Monday to strategise a high-stakes demand for a larger seat allocation within the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF).

The assertive stance of the party is buttressed by its recent performance in the three-tier local body polls held in December, where its surge in representation outside Malabar has cemented its role as the undisputed linchpin of the coalition. The IUML saw its tally of civic seats jump by nearly 40%, securing 3,203 representatives across the State, up from 2,338 in 2020. Crucially, the party demonstrated newfound strength outside its traditional stronghold of Malappuram, making strides in districts like Kasaragod, Kannur, and Pathanamthitta.

In the previous Assembly elections, the IUML maintained robust efficiency, winning 15 of the 25 seats it contested, eclipsing the Congress, which contested the lion’s share of seats. The surgical precision in its allocated constituencies was apparent, unlike the strike rate of the Congress, which lagged behind in the 2021 and 2016 Assembly polls.

Briefing the media, IUML State general secretary P.M.A. Salam was explicit on the party’s view on the seat-sharing pact. “The League will demand more seats, as the party deserves them. The matter will be discussed with the Congress. We will make our stance clear after the initial round of talks. At the same time, we are ready to make compromises if new parties join the UDF. Talks will also be held on the exchange of seats,” he added.

Demerits of expansion

While the party is keen to expand its footprint, its leadership is also aware that aggressive bargaining for seats in south Kerala could lead to a fraught political landscape. A visible expansion of the IUML into the southern districts could trigger a fluid and unpredictable reaction as such a move might inadvertently consolidate Hindu and Christian communities against the front and possibly a backlash that the LDF or the emerging BJP could potentially exploit.

The meeting reportedly deliberated on swapping certain seats, including Thiruvambady, Guruvayur, and Kalamassery, which the party has been contesting without success over the past few elections. If seats are exchanged, the League wishes to contest constituencies in central and southern Kerala where it believes the chances of victory are higher. Discussions were also held on introducing a cap on fielding leaders who have completed consecutive terms in the State Assembly.

“In the elections, the League will ensure fair representation for all sections. Winnability will be the key criterion in deciding candidates. Women and young faces will also figure among the candidates,” Mr. Salam said.