India-IUML-Chief
The national face of the minority community and a seven time Lok Sabha MP from Kerala, Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) President G M Banatwala, died in Mumbai Wednesday after a brief illness.

Banatwala's death plunged IUML circles in Kerala into gloom as he was part and parcel of the politics in the state.

Banatwala, 74, represented Ponnani parliamentary constituency in the IUML heartland of Malappuram from 1977 to 1989 and after a break from 1996 to 2004.

A gifted parliamentarian and orator, Banatwala espoused the cause of Muslims in Parliament on crucial issues like the Shah Bano case, demolition of the Babri Masjid and minority rights, including the personal law.

Born in Mumbai, Banatwala was returned to Parliament with very high margins reflecting the trust of the people in the North Kerala area dominated by Mappila Muslims.