Kerala CM Satheesan Alleges Attempts to Stoke Christian-Muslim Discord

Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has alleged that certain individuals with hidden agendas have, over the past five years, attempted to sow discord between the Christian and Muslim communities in Kerala. He made the remarks while speaking at an event in Koyilandy on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

The Chief Minister was presenting an award instituted in memory of late Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leader Syed Abdurrahman Bafaqi Thangal to former Minister M.K. Muneer. He noted that some people who outwardly professed secular values had also supported these efforts to create a rift between the two communities.

Without naming anyone, Mr. Satheesan credited IUML State president Panakkad Syed Sadiqali Shihab Thangal for firmly resisting such moves. He described the UDF's decisive victory in the recent Assembly election as a direct outcome of this collective resistance, reflecting the people's rejection of communal polarisation.

The Chief Minister was recalling Bafaqi Thangal's enduring contributions to fostering inter-community harmony in the state. Industries Minister P.K. Kunhalikutty and other IUML leaders were present at the function, organised by the Koyilandy Assembly constituency unit of the Dubai Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre.

At a separate segment of the event, Mr. Satheesan presented an award in memory of industrialist P.V. Sami to M.P. Ahammed of the Malabar Group. Speaking on the occasion, he urged against viewing businesspersons as adversaries, noting that many are genuine taxpayers contributing significantly to the state's development. He, however, clarified that those engaged in illegitimate businesses would face strict legal action.

Drawing parallels between the two professions, the Chief Minister observed that politicians and business leaders share common traits, including long-term vision, emphasis on teamwork, and a keen understanding of both market dynamics and societal needs.