Kerala: Munambam Judicial Commission meets waqf victims, hunger strike crosses 80 days

Munambam witnessed a significant development as the Judicial Commission, led by Justice (Retd.) C.N. Ramachandran, visited the village on January 4 to assess the ongoing Waqf land dispute. The visit comes as a ray of hope for hundreds of families who have been entangled in legal uncertainty over land ownership for decades.

The Commission’s visit began with a comprehensive evaluation of the situation, including a tour of the disputed properties and areas impacted by sea erosion. Justice Ramachandran also visited the dharna pandal, where women from the Munambam Land Protection Council have been staging a relay hunger strike for over 80 days, demanding justice.

Speaking with the victims, the Commission listened to their grievances, many of which reflect the severe consequences of the Waqf Board’s claims on their lands. Residents shared stories of hardship, highlighting how the dispute has upended their lives:

Financial instability: Families are unable to sell or mortgage their lands, cutting off access to vital loans.

Disrupted lives: Higher education for children has stalled, and marriages have been delayed due to financial uncertainty.

Halted development: Even basic home renovations or constructions under government free housing schemes are impossible without clarity on ownership.

Justice Ramachandran acknowledged the complexity of the issue, stating that the cases of people who legally purchased the lands must be carefully examined. The Commission will also hear the perspectives of the Kerala Waqf Board and the Farooq College Trust, both key stakeholders in the dispute.

The Munambam Waqf issue refers to an ongoing controversy in Kerala, particularly in the coastal village of Munambam, where the Kerala State Waqf Board has allegedly claimed ownership of lands that were already purchased and occupied by individuals and families over several decades.

The Justice pointed out that many families have occupied the land for decades, and some areas have been significantly affected by sea erosion, further complicating the claims. The hearings are scheduled to begin on 10 January 2025, and the Commission plans to submit its report to the authorities by the end of February.