VD Satheesan Denies BJP Allegations, Reaffirms IUML Role In UDF Victory
Satheesan defends IUML, rejects BJP’s secularism allegations in Kerala.
Kerala Chief Minister-designate VD Satheesan has strongly defended his alliance partner, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), amid sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), reiterating that there will be “no compromise” on secular values in the state’s political framework.
Speaking to reporters, Satheesan said the IUML remains a crucial part of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) and played an important role in the alliance’s recent electoral success. He warned that attempts to weaken the Muslim League could inadvertently create space for extremist forces, stressing the importance of maintaining political balance and unity within Kerala’s coalition politics.
His remarks came a day after BJP leaders alleged that Satheesan’s selection as Chief Minister was influenced by the IUML and the organisation Jamaat-e-Islami. Responding to these claims, Satheesan accused the BJP of promoting divisive narratives and running hate campaigns aimed at destabilising communal harmony in the state.
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Reaffirming his commitment to secular principles, Satheesan said Kerala must not be allowed to drift towards division based on religion or ideology. He emphasised that the state’s social fabric has historically been rooted in coexistence and warned against any attempts to undermine that tradition through political messaging or social media campaigns.
He also addressed personal criticism directed at him, stating that while political disagreement is acceptable, communal or divisive remarks should not be tolerated. He urged critics to focus on policy and governance rather than identity-based narratives, adding that constructive criticism is always welcome if it avoids hatred.
The political exchange follows the Congress-led UDF’s decisive electoral victory, where the coalition secured 102 seats in the 140-member Assembly, with Congress winning 63 seats. The party subsequently ended internal deliberations by naming Satheesan as Chief Minister after several days of discussion among senior leaders.
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