Thiruvananthapuram: The Latin archdiocese has sought an all-party meeting to address the ongoing waqf land dispute in Munambam. On Tuesday, the archdiocese organized a solidarity meet at the Martyr's Column in Thiruvananthapuram, supporting the local community in Munambam amid rising tensions over the land issue.
Archbishop Thomas J Netto inaugurated the event, emphasising the importance of maintaining Kerala's tradition of religious harmony in the face of escalating tensions. "Kerala's hallmark is its religious harmony, and we must be vigilant against any attempts to disrupt it," archbishop Netto said.
He underscored the importance of finding a permanent solution to what he described as "injustices" affecting the Munambam residents. Netto also noted the chief minister's "empathetic response" during discussions with leaders of the coordination committee, which he interpreted as a hopeful sign for a constructive resolution. Netto asserted that the disputed land in Munambam rightfully belongs to its residents and that public awareness about the issue is growing.
Eugene Pereira, who delivered the introductory address, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for a fair resolution that respects the rights of local residents. Prominent political leaders, including CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam and Congress veteran V M Sudheeran, participated in the protest. Viswam called for unity among "materialists and spiritualists" to resolve the dispute, underscoring that the land in question should remain with the Munambam community. "Everyone will stand with the people of Munambam until their rights are restored," he said.
Viswam warned that the issue could easily become inflamed due to strong public sentiments but emphasised the need to approach the matter calmly and judiciously. "People have a fundamental right to live on the land they paid for. That right should not be questioned," Viswam said. He acknowledged that state govt's decision to advance a meeting from the Nov 28 to the Nov 22 shows its commitment to addressing the matter.