Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, while addressing the Rajya Sabha on the Waqf Amendment Bill 2025, highlighted a controversial land dispute in Kerala. Rijiju said, "You must have read in the news that in Kerala, 600 Christian families, who are all farmers, have lost their land. This case is known as the Munambam case, and the Waqf Board has claimed their land. These families had nowhere to go and were left wandering in distress."

The minister further revealed that Christian organizations have sought the government's intervention. "Because of this, the Catholic Bishop Council, along with various Christian organizations in Delhi and other places, have submitted a memorandum to us. They have also issued press releases and appealed to all Members of Parliament," he added.

Watch: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju says, "You must have read in the news that in Kerala, 600 Christian families, who are all farmers, have lost their land. This case is known as the Munambam case, and the Waqf Board has claimed their land. These families had nowhere to go and… pic.twitter.com/SwtVeQQtrD

— IANS (@ians_india) April 3, 2025

The Munambam land dispute has ignited concerns among different communities regarding Waqf land claims, adding to the ongoing debate over the Waqf Amendment Bill. The bill, which has already passed in the Lok Sabha, has faced strong opposition from various political and religious groups.

As discussions continue in the Rajya Sabha, the government maintains that the bill aims to ensure transparency in Waqf property management. However, opposition voices claim it could impact minority rights. Rijiju’s remarks have now drawn fresh attention to the broader implications of the bill, particularly on land ownership rights across different communities.