Shiv Sena (UBT)'s stand on some issues are closer to ours: IUML leader

IANS April 4, 2025 171 views

The political landscape is witnessing an interesting convergence between the Shiv Sena (UBT) and IUML on critical national issues. Dr. M.K. Muneer highlighted their growing alignment, particularly regarding the Waqf Amendment Bill and critique of BJP's policies. Both parties are united under the INDIA bloc, signaling a potential shift in traditional political dynamics. This development underscores the evolving nature of issue-based politics in contemporary Indian democracy.

"Politics today is issue-based" - Dr. M.K. Muneer, IUML Leader
Thiruvananthapuram, April 4: Reacting to Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray's statement on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill which was passed from both Houses of Parliament, veteran Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leader Dr M.K. Muneer said that the party's stance on certain issues is coming closer to that of the IUML.

Key Points

1

Uddhav Thackeray criticizes BJP's Waqf Bill as potential land grab

2

IUML sees ideological similarities with Shiv Sena (UBT)

3

Both parties part of INDIA bloc coalition

4

Political alignment transcends traditional party boundaries

Muneer, a senior legislator and son of former Kerala Chief Minister C.H. Mohammed Koya, said the passage of the new Waqf bill has "opened a Pandora's box."

Soon after the Waqf Amendment Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha, Uddhav Thackeray, at a press conference, accused the BJP of targeting Waqf land while ignoring temple trusts, churches, and gurdwaras. He said the BJP is trying to give waqf land to its friends.

Responding to this, Muneer acknowledged the convergence of views, saying, "Of late, Shiv Sena (UBT) has taken positions, especially on the Uniform Civil Code and other issues, that are similar to the stand we have taken."

"Politics today is issue-based. While we may belong to different parties with distinct ideologies, we welcome any political force that aligns with the IUML's stance," Muneer told IANS.

He also emphasized their shared alliance under the INDIA bloc. "Mind you, we are part of the INDIA bloc also," said Muneer.

Uddhav Thackeray has accused the BJP of using the Waqf Bill as a smokescreen for what he called a "land grab" benefiting industrialists. "It's a ploy to seize Waqf land and hand it over to their corporate allies," he alleged.

In Kerala, the IUML remains the second-largest ally in the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF).

Over the years, it has solidified its influence within the coalition, occasionally challenging the Congress leadership.

Recently, IUML leaders conveyed their dissatisfaction to the Congress high command over ongoing factional conflicts within the Kerala unit.

Meanwhile, the ruling CPI(M) in Kerala has made several attempts to court the IUML, but its overtures were firmly rejected by IUML supremo Panakkad Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal.

Reader Comments

A
Aisha K.
Interesting to see political alliances shifting based on issues rather than just ideology. The Waqf bill definitely needs more discussion - glad leaders are speaking up! ✊
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Rahul P.
While I appreciate the shared concerns, I wish politicians would focus more on concrete solutions rather than just opposing each other. This constant blame game helps no one.
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Sanjay M.
The INDIA bloc seems to be getting stronger with these unexpected alliances. Politics is definitely changing before our eyes!
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Fatima A.
As someone from Kerala, I've seen how IUML maintains its identity while working in alliances. Their stance on protecting Waqf properties is commendable 👏
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Vikram S.
The article could have explored more about why CPI(M)'s overtures were rejected. That seems like an important angle missing here. Otherwise good coverage of a complex political situation.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Waqf Bill Uddhav Thackeray IUML Dr. M.K. Muneer BJP INDIA Bloc Political Alignment
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