In a significant political development, leaders of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) have begun extending their support to the Samastha Shatabdi Sandesh Yatra after initially staying away from the event. The shift in stance became evident as the centenary celebration yatra entered the Malabar region of Kerala on Tuesday.
Reconciliation in Action at Tirur
The visible thaw in relations was marked by a reception organized for the yatra at Tirur. IUML Malappuram district president Abbas Ali Shihab Thangal inaugurated the event, signaling the party's formal cooperation. The function saw the attendance of prominent IUML figures, including Ponnani MP Abdussamad Samadani and Tirur MLA Kurukkoli Moideen, alongside other party functionaries.
This public show of unity stands in contrast to the yatra's launch on December 19 from Kanyakumari. Abbas Ali Thangal was originally scheduled to preside over that inaugural function, which was to be flagged off by IUML national president Kader Mohideen. However, both leaders were conspicuously absent, highlighting underlying differences within the Samastha ecosystem regarding the yatra's organization.
Roots of the Discord and Path to Resolution
Sources indicate the initial discord stemmed from a symbolic issue. Sections of Samastha perceived as close to the IUML had expressed reservations over the yatra flag not being handed over from the influential Panakkad family. This procedural concern led to a difference of opinion, causing key IUML leaders to distance themselves from the launch.
However, concerted reconciliation efforts have since been initiated behind the scenes. Discussions between Samastha and IUML leadership have reportedly helped ease tensions, with both sides agreeing to move forward in a spirit of coordination. The formation of a special committee in October 2023 to address internal differences between pro- and anti-IUML factions within Samastha laid the groundwork for this détente. The panel was specifically tasked with identifying points of contention and recommending conciliatory measures to ensure unity during the centenary year.
Looking Ahead: Key Attendees in Malappuram
The reconciliation is set to be further solidified on Wednesday. IUML state president Panakkad Sadikali Shihab Thangal and national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty are expected to attend receptions for the yatra in Malappuram. Their participation will be a strong endorsement of the mended ties and a boost for the yatra's final leg.
The Samastha Shatabdi Sandesh Yatra, which commenced its journey from Kanyakumari, is scheduled to conclude on December 28 in Manjeshwar. The evolving support from the IUML, a major political force in the region, adds a new dimension to this significant religious and cultural procession marking Samastha's centenary celebrations.
