The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), the second-largest constituent of the United Democratic Front (UDF), is facing a politically difficult phase in the early days of the new government led by V.D. Satheesan, with two key policy issues placing the party in a constrained position.

Within weeks of the UDF assuming office, the coalition has been drawn into controversies over the PM SHRI education scheme and the decision to reduce taxes on low-alcohol beverages. Both decisions go against the IUML’s long-standing positions.

IUML State president Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal said alcohol would remain a social concern regardless of its strength. He also downplayed the budgetary reference to tax relief on low-alcohol beverages, describing it as a routine financial mention that should not be over-interpreted.

He reiterated that the UDF’s declared policy would be alcohol abstinence and said any decision on the matter would follow discussions within the coalition. His remarks reflected the party’s constraints in balancing its ideological position with coalition discipline.

The tax decision has triggered criticism from various quarters, with attention also turning to the IUML, which holds five ministerial positions in the Cabinet. Suprabhatham, the mouthpiece of the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, the largest body of traditional Islamic clerics in the State, also criticised the move describing it as a matter of concern.

The liquor issue is expected to remain politically sensitive for the IUML throughout the government’s term, given its traditional opposition to alcohol consumption.

A similar challenge has emerged over the PM SHRI scheme. While in Opposition, the IUML had strongly opposed the programme and rejected it outright. However, as part of the ruling coalition, the party has taken a more restrained position.

General Education Minister N. Samsudheen, one of the IUML’s five Ministers, now heads a Cabinet committee examining implementation of the scheme. The development marks a shift from the party’s earlier stance, as the government moves to align with central funding requirements tied to the programme.

The Chief Minister has indicated that the State cannot forgo Central funds linked to PM SHRI, effectively limiting policy flexibility. Within this framework, the IUML is now navigating a position shaped by coalition obligations, where its Ministers are expected to implement decisions that the party had previously opposed.