In a sharp political development from Kerala, State Minority Welfare and Waqf Minister V Abdurahiman has strongly criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for allegedly attempting to create religious discord between Muslim and Christian communities in the Munambam region of Ernakulam district. His comments come amid a growing land dispute in Cherai and Munambam villages, where local residents claim the Waqf Board is asserting ownership over properties that individuals have legally registered and for which they have been paying land taxes. The issue has sparked widespread concern among residents, particularly after 50 individuals involved in the dispute joined the BJP, citing dissatisfaction with the current handling of the matter.
Allegations of Division and Political Exploitation
Minister Abdurahiman, addressing the media on Saturday, alleged that the BJP is deliberately using the land dispute to pit Christians and Muslims against each other. He warned residents to stay vigilant and not fall prey to what he described as the saffron party’s “divisive tactics.” According to the minister, the BJP’s strategy in Munambam is part of a broader attempt to polarize communities along religious lines for political gain. He stressed that the land ownership issues being raised do not stem from the state Waqf Board’s actions but are being exaggerated and misrepresented to sow discord.
The minister also clarified that the recent Waqf Bill passed by the Centre does not have any bearing on the functioning or autonomy of Kerala’s Waqf Board. Emphasising the state government’s stance, he assured that the Left Democratic Front (LDF) remains fully committed to protecting the rights and interests of all minority communities, including preserving their places of worship, graveyards (khabaristhans), and madrassas.
Political Shift in Munambam
Tensions escalated further when around 50 residents involved in the property disputes joined the BJP during a visit by party leaders, including state BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar. The new entrants were welcomed into the party as the leaders assured them of continued support in securing their land and revenue rights.
This move by the BJP is being viewed by many as a strategic effort to strengthen its presence in Kerala by capitalising on local grievances. However, the state minister’s strong rebuttal has added a new dimension to the ongoing debate, making Munambam a focal point in the political landscape of Kerala.
