Malappuram (Kerala) | IUML leader Sayyid Munavvar Ali Shihab Thangal on Friday said that while the party deserves the deputy chief minister's post, it would not stake a claim for it if the UDF comes to power in Kerala.

The Kerala Assembly polls were held on Thursday, with results for all 140 constituencies to be declared on May 4.

The LDF is aiming for a third term, the UDF for a comeback, and the NDA to open its account in the state.

Speaking to reporters, Thangal denied the charge that Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) candidates sought votes on religious lines.

"It is against our party policies. If any such incident has taken place, we will probe it," he said.

He said minorities trust the UDF to ensure their protection.

He added that it was not a case of minority consolidation, but that people across sections saw the UDF as a reliable force.

On whether the IUML would seek the deputy chief minister's post if the UDF comes to power, Thangal said the party had held the position in the past.

"We deserve it. But we will not claim it or negotiate over it," he said.

He expressed confidence that the UDF would come to power.

IUML leader P K Kunhalikutty also clarified that the party would not press for the deputy chief minister's post or create competition over the issue.

"We will not demand the post or take any such position," he told a TV channel.

He said Congress leader V D Satheesan's claim of winning 100 seats was realistic.

He added that the IUML's expectations were similar, citing the UDF's performance in recent elections.

According to him, the chief minister would be decided by the Congress.

"The person chosen by the Congress as chief minister will have our support," he said.