The cold war between the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and a section of the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama leadership over influence in the orthodox Muslim community appears to be easing, though underlying differences remain.

At the heart of the tension was an unspoken contest over authority and influence, whether it lay with Samastha president Syed Jifri Muthukoya Thangal or IUML State president Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal in shaping community affairs.

While the two organisations have largely maintained working relations, a small section within the Samastha has consistently objected to the IUML’s perceived dominance, leading to periodic stand-offs. Even now, a degree of anti-IUML sentiment persists within that small segment in the Samastha.

Recent political developments have consolidated the IUML’s position. In the back-to-back local body and Assembly elections held within four months, the party secured decisive victories across Malabar, particularly in Malappuram, strengthening its assertion of political dominance.

Party insiders say the results have made the influence clearer, with some in the IUML now feeling that objections from parts of Samastha can be largely ignored. There is also a growing view that the party should not spend time on internal community disputes and should instead focus on its main political work.

At the same time, there is a noticeable change in tone within broader Samastha circles. Several leaders are now more openly recognising the IUML’s key role in the political landscape and its likely importance in forming and running the upcoming government.

Earlier, the Samastha president had maintained direct engagement with outgoing Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, suggesting a degree of political influence. That phase is now widely seen as over, with changing political realities indicating a stronger IUML role in the next five-year cycle.

Despite occasional tensions and some lingering anti-IUML sentiment in the Samastha, IUML leaders have avoided open confrontation. Even during events like the Samastha centenary celebrations, where the party had a limited role, it chose restraint instead of escalation.

This cautious approach is now seen as a strategic decision that has helped preserve stability within the wider community. Recent election results have further strengthened the IUML’s position in both political and social spheres.