As preparations intensify for the upcoming local body elections, the long-standing ideological differences between the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and Samastha Kerala Jam'iyyathul Ulama have once again flared into open conflict. Although the two groups have coexisted in a mutually dependent relationship for decades, disagreements surrounding the Coordination of Islamic Colleges (CIC) have now led to visible cracks in their unity.
CIC: A New Direction in Education:
Formed in 2002 at the Markaz headquarters in Kozhikode, the CIC emerged as an educational model that sought to harmonize religious and secular learning. Through courses like Wafy and Wafiyya, it aimed to empower both men and women with comprehensive education. The initiative was led by—and is still chaired by—Panakkad Sadiq Ali Thangal.
Deepening Factional Differences:
Leaders from the Samastha Mushawara, particularly those critical of the League, have raised concerns about CIC’s functioning. Allegations that CIC Secretary Hakeem Faizi harbors Salafi leanings, and dissatisfaction with certain progressive stands on women's education—especially clauses related to delaying marriage—have fueled Samastha’s unease.
Samastha’s demands are clear: it wants CIC to be brought entirely under its control, with final decision-making authority embedded in its own constitution, and for each affiliated college to function as per its directives. However, the Muslim League has not accepted these conditions.
The Rift Becomes Public:
Another controversy intensified the situation when Asghar Ali Faizi, who criticized the League’s stance, was expelled from Jamia Nooriya. Despite 39 out of 40 Mushawara members supporting his reinstatement, Sadiq Ali Thangal—President of Jamia—remained silent. The absence of an invitation to him for the Wakf Protection Conference held on May 4 also became a public manifestation of the ongoing discord.
Political Implications for the League:
Without Samastha’s support, the League's political future could be in jeopardy. The party’s strength has traditionally relied on the unwavering backing of the E.K. faction of Sunni Muslims. A fracture in this relationship could destabilize the League’s foundational support.
Until now, an unspoken understanding had prevailed—“Samastha for religion, the League for politics.” But the present developments raise the question of whether this pact has reached its end.
Resolution or Rupture?
It is essential that the relationship between the League and Samastha be preserved. However, it must be based on mutual respect and understanding. Without that, what was once the most powerful alliance within the community may descend into a tale of egos, power struggles, and mutual collapse.
