The Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, Kerala’s largest body of Islamic clerics and a leading organisation of the State’s traditional Sunni Muslims, has objected to the appointment of a government pleader in the High Court. It alleged that the United Democratic Front (UDF) government is elevating people with Sangh Parivar links to key public positions.
Sunni Yuvajana Sangham (SYS) State general secretary Abdussamad Pookkottur, who is also regarded as an unofficial spokesperson for the Samastha, voiced the organisation’s criticism on Saturday.
Although the Samastha is the largest body of Muslim clerics in the State, it does not directly represent the Muslim community as a whole.
The protest follows the appointment of D.S. Sharath as government pleader. The appointment has sparked controversy over allegations that Mr. Sharath has links with the Sangh Parivar.
Mr. Pookkottur said appointments of people with Sangh Parivar connections to senior government posts would “naturally invite opposition”.
He claimed there was dissent over the issue within the UDF and expressed hope that the front would address it. “UDF leaders have informed us that the issue will be discussed within the front. We will wait to see what decision the UDF takes after its meeting,” he said.
The criticism marks a rare intervention by the Samastha in a politically contentious appointment and reflects its concern over what it sees as the growing influence of the Sangh Parivar under the UDF government led by V.D. Satheesan.
Published – July 11, 2026 07:17 pm IST
