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The Munambam land dispute in Kerala has triggered a difference of opinion within the Opposition, Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) over the ownership of the land.
The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a key ally of the Congress, has maintained that the land is Waqf property while emphasising that the residents, who have been living there for decades, should not face eviction.
IUML MP Mohammed Basheer stated unequivocally that the land in question belongs to the Waqf, citing historical documents to support the claim. “Some people are saying that this is not Waqf land. I am responding to it for the first time – this is Waqf land itself. The argument that this is not Waqf land is wrong. There are documents proving it,” Basheer said.
He explained that in the 1950s, a man named Mohammed Siraj Sait had designated the land as Waqf property and handed it over to Farook College. He also referred to findings from a two-member Nissar Committee, formed during a previous LDF government, which confirmed the land’s Waqf status.
Basheer further emphasised the need for a humane resolution. “If there were people residing in that area, it’s a matter of humanity. What will they do if they are evicted? The government should seriously look into solving this issue by ensuring that the residents have no issues while upholding the fact that this is Waqf land,” he added.
This stance comes in contrast to statements made by Congress leaders, including Opposition Leader VD Satheesan, who have claimed that the Munambam land is not Waqf property.
IUML State General Secretary PK Kunhalikutty reaffirmed his party’s position, dismissing any suggestions to the contrary. “Nobody has said that this is not Waqf land. All Muslim organizations have the same stand – that none of the residents should be evicted from there,” he said.
The dispute has seen protests by approximately 610 families residing on the land, who have been demanding revenue rights for over three months. In response, the Kerala government appointed a judicial commission to investigate the matter and submit a report within three weeks.
The controversy has exposed cracks within the UDF, with the Congress and its ally, the IUML, taking differing positions on the land’s ownership.