Samastha’s power equation hinges on choice of new general secretary
Following the death of K. Alikutty Musliar, an internal power struggle has emerged within the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama regarding the appointment of a new general secretary. The contest highlights ideological differences between factions regarding their relationship with political parties.
Why it matters
The leadership of major religious organizations significantly influences social and political discourse in Kerala.
An intense lobbying has begun for the post of general secretary of the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, the largest organisation of traditional Islamic scholars in Kerala, following the death of K. Alikutty Musliar.
Alikutty Musliar, who served as Samastha general secretary for 10 years, was laid to rest at the Tirurkad Juma Masjid cemetery on Friday (July 26, 2026) morning. His death has opened a contest between two influential groups within the organisation: one aligned with the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and the other known as the Shajara group, which views the IUML as just another political party.
Both factions have been praising Alikutty Musliar for his scholarship, organisational ability, integrity, spiritual qualities, and ability to maintain cordial relations with supporters and opponents alike.
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