Cong, IUML seat-sharing talks in Kerala

Setting the tone for seat-sharing talks ahead of the general election, Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala met the state leadership of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) at Panakkad in Malappuram on Sunday.

Speaking with reporters after the meeting, Chennithala said formal talks in connection with candidates for the 20 Parliamentary constituencies would commence this week.

Chennithala’s relations with the IUML had hit a low last year after the Congress leader, during a public function, hinted at the outfit turning out to be a liability for his party and the ruling United Democratic Front (UDF).

Sunday’s meeting could help the Congress as it discussed sharing of seats with the IUML, the party’s most powerful ally in the front.

The Congress leadership, however, would have its task cut out as it commences talks with its partners.