Political Tensions in Kerala: CM Vijayan vs. Thangal

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has intensified his criticism of IUML leader Panakkad Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal, accusing him of aligning with radical groups. Vijayan's remarks have stirred controversy within political parties, with the Congress-led UDF accusing him of promoting majority communalism.

Kerala's political landscape witnessed heightened tensions as Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan launched a scathing critique of IUML leader Panakkad Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal. Vijayan accused Thangal of endorsing connections with radical Islamist factions like Jamaat-e-Islami and SDPI, sparking a fierce political debate.

Responding to earlier remarks, the ruling party's leader insisted his critical stance was solely directed at IUML's Thangal, not past leaders. Vijayan's statements have prompted the Congress-led UDF to allege attempts of promoting majority communal sentiments in the state, further fuelling the controversy.

The issue has gained momentum with the upcoming Palakkad bypoll, as Youth Congress state president Rahul Mamkootathil said Vijayan's remarks would influence voter decisions, hinting at communal undertones in the CM's approach.

(With inputs from agencies.)