Thiruvananthapuram | The BJP on Tuesday targeted the IUML, a key ally of the Congress in Kerala, over the delay in selecting the next chief minister of the state, accusing it of attempting to play a decisive role in the selection.

Addressing a press conference here, BJP state general secretary S Suresh alleged that the Congress high command was trying to identify who among the chief ministerial aspirants enjoyed the backing of the IUML and the Jamaat-e-Islami leaders.

He claimed that the UDF was not voted to power for internal power struggles and accused the grand-old party of allowing coalition partners to influence the leadership decision.

Referring to the reported visit of a Karnataka minister to the residence of IUML supremo Sadique Ali Shihab Thangal at Panakkad in Malappuram district, Suresh termed it "mysterious" and alleged that recent political developments within the UDF were part of a larger agenda driven by Jamaat-e-Islami.

"The IUML is attempting to play a decisive role in determining who should become the next chief minister of the state," he alleged.

Suresh said the Congress should remember that it had not come to power solely with the votes of the IUML, SDPI and Jamaat-e-Islami supporters.

He further criticised the Congress for failing to announce a chief minister even nine days after the Assembly election results despite securing a massive mandate.

He alleged that factional fights within the Congress had spilled onto the streets, leading to poster wars and incidents of violence in some places.

Suresh further claimed that administrative activities in the state had been affected amid the delay in government formation, alleging that school-related works and public health systems were facing disruptions.

He alleged that Kerala risked losing central assistance under the PM SHRI scheme.

The BJP leader also accused UDF workers of engaging in violent celebrations after the election victory and alleged attacks on BJP flags and flex boards in parts of the state.

He further claimed that an INL leader had revealed an alleged understanding between the CPI(M) and the IUML to defeat the BJP in Kasaragod and Manjeswar constituencies.