Sun May 25 19:59:30 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The Kerala government and the residents of Munambam are in a state of uncertainty regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The Kerala government opposes the Act and is awaiting the Supreme Court’s verdict on its constitutional validity. The residents of Munambam, predominantly Christian families, are hoping the Act will resolve a land dispute dating back to 2019 when the Waqf Board claimed over 400 acres in their village. While the BJP initially tried to capitalize on the issue, promising a solution through the Act, it has become clear that the amendment may not provide direct relief. The LDF and UDF are united in their opposition and accuse the BJP of communal polarization. Meanwhile, the Kerala Waqf Board is in a state of limbo, awaiting the reconstitution process after its term expired. The Kerala government is proceeding cautiously to avoid alienating any group, especially with local elections approaching.

**News Article:**

**Kerala Government, Residents Await Supreme Court Ruling on Waqf Act Amid Political Maneuvering**

**Thiruvananthapuram, May 26, 2025** – The Kerala government is closely monitoring legal proceedings in the Supreme Court concerning the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, a law it strongly opposes. The case has significant implications for the state, particularly for residents of Munambam, Ernakulam, who are embroiled in a land dispute with the Waqf Board.

In 2019, the Waqf Board claimed ownership of over 400 acres in Munambam, impacting around 600 mostly Christian families. The BJP attempted to leverage the situation, promising the Act would resolve the land issue. However, it is now acknowledged the Act lacks specific provisions to directly address the dispute, sparking accusations from the ruling LDF and opposition UDF of attempts to polarize the state along communal lines.

With the rules of the amended Act yet to be notified, residents are skeptical about its potential benefits. Legal experts caution that the rules cannot exceed the scope of the original law. The state government, initially considering reconstituting the Kerala Waqf Board under the amended Act, is now holding back, awaiting the Supreme Court’s decision. The Board itself is in a state of extended term, following a Kerala High Court order.

Adding to the complexity, the constitutional validity of the Act, particularly the nomination of non-Muslims to the Board, is under scrutiny in the Supreme Court. The outcome of this legal battle will significantly shape the future of Waqf governance in Kerala.

Political observers note that the state government is proceeding cautiously as it prepares for upcoming local elections. The government aims to avoid alienating any particular community amidst the ongoing legal and political wrangling surrounding the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025.

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