Malappuram (Kerala) | An announcement by a senior IUML leader offering "free Gulf trip" to local party functionaries if the UDF candidate in Thavanur constituency secures a big victory margin has triggered a debate in Malappuram district of poll-bound Kerala.

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) is a key ally of the opposition Congress-led UDF.

IUML state vice president C P Bava Haji made the offer while addressing party workers during an election convention held at Thavanur here on Tuesday.

According to TV visuals, he was heard promising a 15-day free Gulf tour to mandalam and panchayat committee office-bearers of the party who help ensure the highest lead for UDF candidate and District Congress Committee (DCC) president V S Joy in the constituency.

The package includes to-and-fro travel tickets, accommodation and other expenses for the trip, the leader said, and urged the party workers to concentrate on their respective booths in the constituency and ensure maximum vote margin for the UDF candidate.

Responding to the development, Malappuram District Collector Vinay Goyal said the matter has come to his notice and further details are being gathered.

"I have talked to the district police chief. Further action will be decided after collecting more information and details," he told the media.

Officials indicated that the matter would be examined in accordance with election rules before deciding on further steps.

However, UDF sources said the offer was not aimed at voters but at party workers and its committees to ensure the maximum vote margin in favour of the candidate.

Joy is contesting to wrest Thavanur seat from sitting LDF independent MLA K T Jaleel in the April 9 polls.