Samasta Kerala Jem-Iyyathul Ulama general secretary Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar has criticised the Kerala government's decision to implement the PM SHRI scheme and urged the administration to reconsider its stand. Addressing the Samastha Founders' Day programme in Kozhikode on Thursday, Kanthapuram said the government should withdraw from the centrally sponsored education initiative, expressing the organisation's continued opposition to the project.

During his speech, Kanthapuram also took strong exception to the government's proposal to reduce taxes on low-alcohol beverages. He argued that the move would not benefit the general public but would instead provide an advantage to liquor traders by encouraging higher sales. According to him, the state's focus should be on reducing alcohol consumption and gradually moving towards prohibition rather than introducing measures that could make alcoholic beverages more affordable and accessible.

His remarks come at a time when the state government continues to face criticism from several quarters over both the PM SHRI scheme and the proposed changes in liquor taxation. The comments also reflect the concerns expressed by sections of the Muslim community over the government's recent policy decisions.

Kanthapuram's remarks stand in contrast to the view expressed by IUML parliamentary party leader P.K. Kunhalikutty, who has publicly endorsed Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan's position on both the implementation of the PM SHRI scheme and the proposal to reduce taxes on low-alcohol beverages.

Sources indicate that although there were initial reservations within the IUML regarding participation in the PM SHRI programme, Kunhalikutty backed the proposal after the chief minister explained the government's rationale during a cabinet meeting. His support is seen as an indication of the party leadership's willingness to align with the government's position despite internal differences.

The differing views expressed by Kanthapuram and sections of the IUML underline the continuing debate surrounding the state's education and liquor policies, with both issues remaining politically and socially sensitive.