WaqfDispute – Centre Seeks Clarification From Kerala Waqf Board Over Munambam Land Issue
WaqfDispute – The Union Ministry of Minority Affairs has initiated action in connection with the ongoing Munambam land dispute by issuing a notice to the Kerala Waqf Board and seeking its response on matters related to land registration. The development comes after concerns were raised before the Centre regarding the inclusion of certain properties in the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development (UMEED) portal.
Complaint Prompted Central Review
The issue gained attention after BJP Kerala president and MLA Rajeev Chandrasekhar submitted a detailed representation to Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju. In his communication, Chandrasekhar requested central intervention over the registration of several parcels of land, including nearly 404 acres located in Munambam, on the UMEED digital platform maintained for Waqf properties.
According to the complaint, the registration process followed by the Kerala Waqf Board raised questions about whether the required procedures under the UMEED framework had been properly observed. Chandrasekhar argued that authority to upload property information rests with the concerned mutawalli, or caretaker, and not directly with the Waqf Board.
Questions Raised Over Registration Process
The BJP leader contended that the direct entry of land records by the Board amounted to an overreach of its designated powers. He maintained that such actions could create legal complications, particularly in cases where ownership claims remain disputed and are yet to be conclusively decided through judicial or administrative channels.
Following the submission of the complaint, the Ministry of Minority Affairs sought an explanation from the Kerala Waqf Board regarding the circumstances surrounding the registration of the properties in question. The Centre’s move is being viewed as a formal step toward examining the concerns presented before it.
BJP Welcomes Centre’s Intervention
Leaders of the BJP described the notice as a positive response to long-standing concerns expressed by residents and community groups in Munambam. The party has repeatedly stated that it is committed to safeguarding the rights of people who claim ownership or possession of the disputed lands.
Party representatives have also argued that including contested properties on official records before the resolution of ownership disputes could lead to administrative and legal challenges. They maintain that transparency and due process should be followed in all matters involving land registration and property claims.
Similar Concerns Reported Elsewhere
Chandrasekhar noted that issues related to Waqf land are not limited to Munambam. He referred to complaints emerging from other parts of Kerala, including Taliparamba, where residents have reportedly raised concerns regarding land classification and ownership matters linked to Waqf properties.
He stated that the party would continue to pursue appropriate legal and administrative remedies wherever such disputes arise. According to him, ensuring fairness in land-related matters remains an important priority, especially in cases affecting local communities and property holders.
Focus on Protecting Property Rights
Reiterating his position, Chandrasekhar said efforts would continue to ensure that the interests of legitimate landowners are protected and that any alleged irregularities are thoroughly examined. He emphasized the need for lawful procedures and institutional accountability in handling sensitive land issues.
The BJP leader described the Centre’s decision to seek clarification from the Kerala Waqf Board as a significant development in the ongoing Munambam dispute. He added that the party would continue monitoring similar cases across Kerala while advocating for the protection of citizens’ rights and a fair resolution of land ownership concerns