Kerala Minister Accuses BJP of Stoking Communal Divide in Munambam Land Dispute

V Abdurahiman says Centre's Waqf Bill won't impact state's minority institutions​

Thiruvananthapuram, April 5 – Kerala Minister for Minority Welfare and Waqf, V Abdurahiman, has strongly criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that the party is deliberately attempting to create communal tension between Muslims and Christians in Munambam and Cherai villages of Ernakulam district.

The minister accused the BJP of orchestrating efforts to turn the two religious communities against each other, claiming that the party’s actions are part of a broader strategy to divide society on communal lines.

“The BJP has carried out an intense effort in Munambam to make Christians and Muslims clash with each other and become enemies,” Abdurahiman said during a media interaction in the capital.

Click to expand...

Residents Allege Land Takeover by Waqf Board​

Tensions have been brewing in Cherai and Munambam as several residents allege that the Waqf Board is asserting ownership over their lands and properties—despite the existence of registered deeds and valid land tax receipts in their names. These claims have sparked a growing dispute in the region.

Minister Defends State's Autonomy on Waqf Matters​

Abdurahiman sought to calm fears surrounding the recent Waqf Bill passed by the Centre, asserting that the legislation and any related central decisions would not affect the functioning of the Kerala State Waqf Board.

“The new Waqf Bill and the consequent decisions by the Centre will not impact places of worship, khabaristhans (graveyards), or madrassas of minority communities. The LDF government is fully capable of protecting the interests of minorities,” he added.

Click to expand...

Political Turn as Locals Join BJP​

The minister’s remarks come a day after 50 individuals involved in the Munambam land dispute officially joined the BJP. Their induction took place in the presence of BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar and other NDA leaders during a visit to the village.

During their visit, Chandrasekhar and his team assured residents that the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) would support them in their fight for land rights and revenue recognition.

Abdurahiman urged local communities to see through what he described as the saffron party’s “divisive tactics” and maintain harmony in the region.