Protestors in Munambam Write to Political Leaders on 100th Day of Hunger Strike Against Alleged Waqf Exploitation

Ernakulam (Kerala), January 25, 2025 (ANI): On the 100th day of their hunger strike, residents of Munambam village in Ernakulam, Kerala, wrote to India’s political parties and Members of Parliament, seeking attention and action on issues stemming from the Waqf Act of 1995 and its 2013 amendment.

The letter highlights allegations of land expropriation by the Waqf Board, accusing it of exploiting loopholes in the Act to claim properties, including land in Munambam.

Key Allegations

The letter alleges that the Waqf Board unilaterally declared land in Munambam as Waqf property based on the presence of the term "Waqf" in a 1995 deed, without proper inquiry or notification. The residents argue that the declaration disregards clauses within the deed permitting property sales, which they claim contradict the essence of Waqf property.

The letter further asserts that the Board compelled the revenue department to alter land titles without notifying the affected parties, violating constitutional rights under Article 300A, which safeguards property rights, and the right to fair legal proceedings.

According to the residents, over 600 families in Munambam have been dispossessed of their properties due to the Board's actions, which they describe as unconstitutional and lacking legal authority.

Demands for Legislative Amendments

The protestors outlined specific demands, including:

• The removal of vague provisions in Section 3 of the Waqf Act

• The abrogation of Sections 40 and 52A.

• Modifications to Section 52(4).

• The introduction of a new proviso in Section 84.

• The excision of Section 108A.
  

They also criticized the Waqf Tribunal for operating without adherence to the Code of Civil Procedure and the Indian Evidence Act, calling for its abolition.

• Concerns Over Governance

  The letter highlights deficiencies in the Waqf Amendment Bill, including its lack of retrospective effect and ambiguity regarding the eligibility and competence of appointees. Residents claimed that current appointments are vulnerable to political influence, undermining the governance and integrity of the Waqf Board.

  Appeal for Support

  “We beseech you to contemplate our plight with the gravitas it deserves and to champion amendments that will rectify these manifest injustices,” the letter states. The residents urged political parties to align their actions with constitutional principles and support reforms to ensure justice and prevent further exploitation.

  The ongoing hunger strike and the accompanying letter underscore the protestors’ determination to draw national attention to their grievances and demand meaningful legislative action.