Munambam Waqf Land Dispute: Why A 123-Year-Old Lease Of 404 Acres At An Island’s Tip Has Divided Kerala

The land dispute in the coastal village of Munambam in Kochi dates back to the 19th century when the Kutchi Memons migrated to the Kerala coast. The issue escalated in 1962 when residents contested Farook College’s ownership. The BJP has supported the residents, leading to a hunger strike and protests. The land was leased to a Kutchi Memon in 1902, later gifted to Farook College. Legal battles ensued, with the Kerala Waqf Board claiming the land as Waqf property. The residents are now being forced to vacate the land they legally purchased. The issue has become political, with various parties taking sides and the Church urging resolution. The Latin Catholic Church, known for supporting UDF, backed LDF in the 2021 elections, keeping the BJP at bay. The Muslim League has urged the state government to address the issue peacefully to maintain religious harmony in Kerala. They propose an out-of-court settlement and cooperation with the government. The government plans to hold a high-level meeting to discuss the matter. The Leader of Opposition has called for an all-party meeting to resolve the land dispute in Munambam. The issue revolves around a 123-year-old lease of 404 acres at the tip of an island, causing division in Kerala.