Kerala’s IUML picks Hindu leader as state vice-president. Why it matters

The elevation of C Syam, a former DYFI state leader who has been with the IUML since 2010, comes as the party navigates allegations of communal polarisation from the Left and pressure from Muslim clerics over its positions.At a time when it faces Opposition allegations of communal polarisation and a push towards conservatism from within the Muslim community, Kerala’s United Democratic Alliance ally has made an unprecedented move — elevating a Hindu leader to one of its top positions.