IUML sticks to demand for 3rd LS seat in Kerala

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has intensified its demand for a third Lok Sabha seat in the upcoming general elections. IUML, a key ally of the Congress party in Kerala, has traditionally contested from two seats but is now pushing for more representation.

IUML senior leader E.T. Mohammed Basheer stated that the party stands firm on its demand for a third Lok Sabha seat, citing its grassroots strength and influence in North Kerala districts such as Malappuram and Kozhikode.

The party’s insistence on a third seat poses a challenge for the Congress party, which led the United Democratic Front to victory in 2019. Congress faces the dilemma of accommodating IUML’s demand without displacing its own sitting MPs.

Congress is reportedly attempting a last-minute negotiation with IUML, offering a future Rajya Sabha seat in exchange for reconsidering the demand. However, sources suggest that IUML is unlikely to back down, potentially forcing Congress to replace one of its MPs to maintain the alliance.

The outcome of this negotiation will determine the composition of the UDF alliance in Kerala and could impact the distribution of Lok Sabha seats in the upcoming elections. Stay tuned for further developments on this political issue.