Kerala UDF faces internal split over PM SHRI school scheme

Opposition leader and former chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan accused the Congress‑led United Democratic Front (UDF) government in Kerala of reversing its stance on the Centre's PM SHRI school scheme, asking “What deal is this now?” after the ruling coalition began defending its implementation.

Key ally Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leader P K Kunhalikutty denied that the UDF had approved the scheme, stating the issue was not discussed at the alliance meeting and that any decision would await a cabinet sub‑committee report. He added, “Under no circumstances will the UDF accept the Centre’s norms on the school curriculum or the selection of schools under the scheme.” The Union government clarified that states may withdraw from PM SHRI, losing only associated benefits. The controversy has deepened fault lines within the UDF, with Muslim organisations also urging the state to pull out of the central programme.