Fri Feb 07 15:50:10 UTC 2025: ## Sunni Scholar Suspended, Exacerbating Tensions Between Samastha and IUML
**Malappuram, Kerala, February 7, 2025** – The suspension of prominent Sunni scholar Musthafal Faizy from the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama’s executive body, the Mushawara, has heightened existing tensions between the Samastha and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML).
Faizy’s suspension stems from controversial remarks made at a recent Malappuram meeting where he appeared to criticize Samastha president Syed Jifri Muthukoya Thangal and assert the IUML’s importance to the Samastha’s survival. He likened Thangal to a latecomer to a “vehicle” representing the Samastha, a metaphor interpreted as disrespectful.
The Mushawara, meeting on February 6th in Kozhikode, responded by suspending Faizy, a decision he criticized for lack of prior consultation. The action further escalated tensions, as another Mushawara member, Bahauddin Nadvi, walked out in protest. While the Samastha downplayed the connection to the IUML, IUML leadership is reportedly angered by the suspension.
Faizy’s history with the Samastha is marked by previous expulsions and rejoining. He previously supported a breakaway Sunni faction and was later expelled for writing a book advocating acceptance of bank interest.
Social media reacted strongly to the suspension, with widespread commentary both for and against Faizy. One popular meme depicted Faizy being removed from a bus driven by Thangal and Samastha secretary Alikutty Musliar. The incident underscores the ongoing power dynamics within Kerala’s Sunni Muslim community.
First Piper 