Mon Dec 09 15:26:56 UTC 2024: ## Reconciliation Talks Fail to Unite Kerala’s Samastha
**Malappuram, Kerala –** A reconciliation meeting aimed at resolving internal conflicts within the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, a prominent Sunni Muslim organization in Kerala, ended inconclusively on Monday. The meeting, jointly convened by the Samastha’s president, Syed Jifri Muthukoya Thangal, and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) president, Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal, was hampered by the absence of a significant faction within the Samastha.
The disagreements stem from differing views on the IUML’s influence within the Samastha, with heated exchanges occurring on social media prior to the meeting. While ten representatives from each side were invited, a group led by Abdul Hameed Faizy Ambalakkadavu boycotted the talks. IUML representatives, including Abdussamad Pookkottur and Nasar Faizy Koodathai, attended.
Following the meeting, Mr. Sadikali Thangal described the boycott as a sign of indiscipline, though Mr. Muthukoya Thangal later downplayed this statement, emphasizing their commitment to reconciliation. Both leaders insisted there was no “dissident group,” despite media portrayals, and stressed the importance of maintaining unity within the Samastha for the entire Muslim community. Mr. Muthukoya Thangal stated that no disciplinary action is planned against those who stayed away, opting instead for further dialogue.
The Samastha’s supreme council, the Mushawara, will convene in Kozhikode on Wednesday to further discuss the matter. The council is expected to offer a fresh perspective and make independent decisions regarding the ongoing internal divisions.
First Piper 