The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), the second-largest coalition partner in the opposition UDF, has voiced its support for the bifurcation of northern Malappuram district in Kerala, provided the government takes such a decision on developmental grounds.
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Veteran IUML leader and MLA PK Kunhalikutty said the party has never attempted to create misunderstandings among people by raising such a demand out of context. He was responding to a question during a recent discussion at a literature festival here.
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He said a suitable decision can be made if the matter arises as a developmental issue and the government machinery makes such a decision.
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He added that it is up to the government to decide whether a new district should be formed in Kerala based on population and other relevant factors. If such a discussion arises, the party will deliberate and choose appropriately.
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“Bifurcation should be implemented if it is necessary for development,” Kunhalikutty stated. He made these remarks in the presence of IUML supremo Sadique Ali Shihab Thangal.
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Malappuram is a Muslim-majority district in north Kerala.
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Recent remarks by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan about Malappuram sparked widespread controversy in the state.ย