IUML to take a decision on 'RS seat instead of LS' proposal on Tuesday

KOCHI: The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) will take a decision tomorrow on the Congress proposal to accept a Rajya Sabha seat instead of a Lok Sabha seat. League state president Panakkad Sadiq Ali will hold a meeting for this purpose in Malappuram in their presence.

Congress and League leaders responded that the discussion held at Aluva Palace yesterday morning was satisfactory. The Congress leaders informed the League leaders about the difficulties in giving away a Congress seat in the current scenario. The Congress is of the view that if the IUML is ready to accept the Rajya Sabha seat, it can make an official announcement in consultation with the national leadership.

KPCC President K Sudhakaran confirmed this after the discussion. PK Kunhalikutty and Dr MK Muneer said that the discussions are satisfactory and a final decision can be taken in tomorrow's meeting.

Opposition leader VD Satheesan, who came out after the discussion, was not ready to confirm the Rajya Sabha seat offer. "The details of the discussions will be communicated to the national leadership. After the meeting of the league tomorrow, it will be discussed including the selection of candidates," Satheesan said.

UDF convener MM Hassan, IUML leaders PMA Salam and ET Mohammad Basheer also participated in the discussion.

The IUML was of the position that it should get a third seat in the Lok Sabha elections. There are indications that the Congress national leadership has also communicated with the League leaders. Kerala Kaumudi had reported that the Congress would be ready to give a Rajya Sabha seat to the League.