Thu Nov 20 04:06:25 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten news article:

Summary:

E.T. Mohammed Basheer, a prominent leader of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), is leading the party’s campaign for the upcoming local body elections in Malappuram. He emphasizes the focus on state government policies, accusing the LDF of discrimination against local bodies, reviving old projects, and having a nexus with the BJP. He expresses optimism for the UDF’s chances, highlighting their cohesion. He also touches on issues like environmental neglect, the rise in alcohol consumption, the need to empower women in politics, and the weakening of the RTI Act. He advocates for a green agenda and strengthening local bodies’ role in healthcare.

News Article:

IUML Leader Basheer Pushes for UDF Victory, Criticizes State Government Ahead of Malappuram Local Elections

Malappuram, India – November 20, 2025 – E.T. Mohammed Basheer, national organizing secretary of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), is spearheading the party’s campaign for the upcoming local body elections in Malappuram. Basheer, a veteran politician and Lok Sabha member, alongside fellow party MPs, aims to leverage their combined experience to boost the United Democratic Front’s (UDF) prospects in the region.

In an exclusive interview with The Hindu, Mr. Basheer outlined the party’s strategy, placing significant emphasis on the policies of the Pinarayi Vijayan-led state government. “The state government’s discrimination against local bodies by withholding funds will inevitably surface in the elections,” he stated. He further accused the Left Democratic Front (LDF) of relaunching projects initiated under the previous Oommen Chandy administration and alleged a covert alliance between the CPI(M) and the BJP.

Basheer expressed confidence in the UDF’s chances, noting a high level of cohesion within the coalition. He did clarify that the IUML would not align with the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) but would maintain strategic arrangements with the Welfare Party of India.

Beyond political maneuvering, Mr. Basheer voiced concerns about environmental degradation, accusing those in power of siding with “mafias” and neglecting the local impact of climate change. He also criticized the state government’s alleged promotion of alcohol consumption and emphasized the need for local bodies to actively regulate liquor outlets.

The IUML leader also highlighted the growing role of women in local politics, praising their dedication and effectiveness. He pledged the party’s commitment to increasing female representation in the State Assembly.

While downplaying corruption within local bodies, Mr. Basheer expressed concern about its prevalence at higher levels of government and lamented the weakening of the Right to Information (RTI) Act under the BJP.

Finally, Mr. Basheer reiterated his commitment to environmental protection, inspired by the late K. Kutty Ahamed Kutty’s “green agenda,” and called for local bodies to prioritize healthcare and work towards further improving Kerala’s already strong health system. The election results will be closely watched as they may hint to possible changes in the local political landscape.

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