The coastal village of Munambam in Ernakulam district has emerged as a focal point in Kerala’s political discourse. The dispute over Waqf land was already anticipated to be a decisive issue in the local elections. Now, after more than six months of continuous agitation, none of the three major political fronts have been able to gain significant ground. They all stand before the people with unanswered questions.
More than 600 families living on nearly 404 acres of Waqf land are now gripped by anxiety. The Revenue Department’s decision to stop collecting land tax, combined with threats of eviction, has only intensified the protests. The Waqf Board and the Church diocese hold differing views on the matter. Although various political parties have taken positions, none have been able to offer any meaningful relief to the protesters.
The BJP entered the issue with high hopes. However, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju’s statement that “this will be a long legal battle” deeply disappointed the protestors. The BJP had made leadership changes in Kerala shortly after amending the Waqf Act in Parliament. With Rajeev Chandrasekhar taking the lead, they organized grand welcome events and mass membership drives, expecting major gains. But Rijiju’s comment proved to be a setback to those expectations.
The Left Front, on the other hand, has not taken a clear stand on the issue. Many harbor doubts about the credibility of the judicial commission's report and its potential implementation. People are also frustrated with the lack of adequate attention from their MPs toward local issues. While the appointed judicial commission is expected to submit its report by the end of May, it remains uncertain whether it will bring any substantial change.
The Munambam dispute has become a litmus test for the political strategies of both the state and central governments. The Chief Minister's remark that “the BJP is trying to fish in troubled waters” has put the central government on the defensive.
As things stand, no political party has been able to claim meaningful gains in Munambam. The protesters remain firmly rooted in their land, continuing their struggle with unwavering resolve.
