The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leadership has asked its Ministers in the United Democratic Front (UDF) government in Kerala to tread carefully while supporting coalition policies, amid criticism over the party’s positions on issues such as Waqf, PM SHRI and the government’s move to reduce taxes on low-alcohol beverages.Facing pressure from various quarters over decisions perceived as a shift from its earlier positions, the IUML wants its Ministers to back UDF policies while ensuring that their statements and actions do not create confusion over the party’s stand.Waqf Board issueThe Waqf Board issue has emerged as the biggest challenge for the party. The government’s submission before the Kerala High Court that it would reconstitute the State Waqf Board in accordance with the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, has invited criticism from Muslim organisations.Waqf Minister N. Samsudheen’s statement that the government would abide by the law has also come under scrutiny, as the IUML has opposed the provision mandating the inclusion of two non-Muslim members on the board.The High Court had frozen the functioning of the existing board, citing the absence of a Shia member and two non-Muslim members as required under the amended law. The board has challenged the order in the Supreme Court.However, the IUML is in favour of reconstituting the board, maintaining that the existing panel appointed during the previous Left Democratic Front (LDF) government does not fulfil the eligibility requirements under the amended law. The party is of the view that chairman K.S. Hamza and members A.A. Rahim and Umar Faizi Mukkam should not continue.While supporting reconstitution of the board in accordance with the law, the IUML continues to oppose the mandatory inclusion of two non-Muslim members and has challenged the provision before the Supreme Court. The party’s position is that its opposition to such appointments is ideological, while its support for reconstitution is based on the need to ensure that the board complies with the legal provisions applicable to all. Published - July 19, 2026 08:44 pm IST