Kerala CM Satheesan Blames Previous Government For Munambam Dispute Confusion

Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Monday launched a sharp attack on the previous Left Democratic Front (LDF) government over the ongoing Munambam land dispute, accusing it of creating administrative confusion that escalated tensions between communities in the coastal region. Speaking after a Cabinet meeting in Kochi, Satheesan alleged that the former government knowingly handled the issue in a manner that made the dispute more sensitive and difficult to resolve. He claimed that decisions taken in the final phase of the previous administration had deepened legal and social complications surrounding the land issue.

The Chief Minister specifically referred to the inclusion of the Waqf Board in the UMEED portal during the earlier government’s tenure, alleging that this move strengthened claims over the disputed land and worsened concerns among local residents. According to Satheesan, once the land was officially reflected in the portal, it effectively reinforced the position that the property belonged to the Waqf Board. He argued that the move indirectly portrayed long-time residents of the area as encroachers, thereby creating fear and uncertainty among families living there for years.

Satheesan assured residents that the current government would not proceed with any eviction measures and said no one living in Munambam would be forced to leave their homes. He stressed that the state government is committed to protecting the interests of the people while simultaneously addressing the legal complexities linked to the dispute. The Chief Minister added that his administration would pursue all possible constitutional and legal options to ensure that the rights of residents are safeguarded without disturbing communal harmony in the region.

Also Read: Adhir Chowdhury Seeks Bengal CM’s Intervention Over Animal Slaughter Guideline Confusion

The Chief Minister also alleged that the issue had been deliberately complicated in such a way that it could not be resolved quickly through routine administrative intervention. He remarked that the previous government’s handling of the matter ensured that a simple resolution would become legally and politically difficult. According to him, the issue now requires careful legal scrutiny because of the administrative decisions taken earlier, which he believes were made with full awareness of the consequences.

At the same time, Satheesan accused the Sangh Parivar of attempting to use the Munambam dispute to create communal divisions in the coastal belt of Kerala. He claimed that certain groups were trying to exploit public emotions surrounding the issue for political gain. The Chief Minister also criticised the CPI(M), alleging that the party too was attempting to derive political advantage from a sensitive issue involving land rights and religious claims.

The Munambam dispute has remained one of Kerala’s most politically sensitive land controversies, involving questions over ownership, Waqf claims, and the rights of local residents. Protests and public campaigns have intensified in recent months as residents sought permanent legal protection over their properties. Satheesan expressed confidence that the matter could ultimately be resolved through lawful means and reiterated that maintaining social peace and protecting citizens would remain the government’s top priorities.

Also Read: US Faces Diplomatic And Military Confusion Over Strait Of Hormuz Reopening Efforts