The Communist Party of India (Marxist), or CPI (M), often projects itself as a champion of the marginalized and a protector of people’s rights. However, recent actions reveal glaring contradictions in its stance on Waqf-related issues. On one hand, CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas vehemently opposes the withdrawal of the Waqf Properties (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Bill, 2014 in Parliament, claiming it threatens the sanctity of Waqf properties and alleging ulterior motives by the BJP government. On the other hand, the CPI(M) in Kerala aligns with the residents of Munambam protesting against the Waqf Board’s alleged encroachments, portraying itself as a defender of local communities.
Support For Munambam Residents Against Waqf
The CPI(M) in Kerala has declared strong support for the residents of Munambam, a coastal village in Ernakulam district, amidst ongoing protests against the Waqf Board’s alleged encroachment on their properties. Party state secretary M.V. Govindan assured that no one in Munambam—or anywhere in Kerala—would face eviction. He emphasized that the Left government is committed to safeguarding the rights of farmers and marginalized communities, a principle that will continue to guide its actions.
Govindan clarified that while the Waqf-related disputes in Munambam have a long history and extend beyond what the state government alone can resolve, the government will take a necessary stance after addressing legal and technical aspects. The CPI(M) has promised ongoing support to the protesting residents and firmly opposed any forcible evictions.
Additionally, Govindan accused the BJP of attempting to incite communal tensions in the area by exploiting the situation. He highlighted the bipartisan resolution passed in the Kerala Assembly by both the CPI(M)-led LDF and the Congress-led UDF, opposing the Centre’s Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to alter existing Waqf legislation.
The CPI(M) has positioned itself as a defender of the affected residents, rejecting the Waqf Board’s claims over properties with registered deeds and land tax receipts.
Opposition For Waqf In Parliament
On 8 November 2024, the BJP-led government withdrew the Waqf Properties (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Bill, 2014 in the Rajya Sabha. Originally introduced by then-Minority Affairs Minister K. Rahman Khan on 18 February 2014, the bill sought to establish a mechanism to evict unauthorised occupants from Waqf properties—assets dedicated to religious or charitable purposes. The bill was referred to a Standing Committee for review in March 2014 but had been pending since. Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju moved for its withdrawal, which was approved via voice vote.
CPI(M) MP John Brittas and IUML MP Abdul Wahab opposed the bill’s withdrawal. Brittas criticized the government, alleging ulterior motives behind the decision. He argued that the withdrawal was aimed at introducing a new bill that would encroach on Waqf properties, with intentions diametrically opposed to the original bill’s objectives of protecting these properties. He accused the government of using Waqf issues to polarize society and dilute the Waqf Act by potentially involving non-Muslims in Waqf governance. Brittas urged the government to protect the nation’s social fabric and adhere to the original bill’s model objectives. Speaking in Parliament, he said, “My submission is that Waqf properties, the government has no business to get into that. The bill which has been circulated is against the spirit of these Waqf properties. They are diluting the Waqf Act.”
CPM Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas opposes the Waqf Amendment Bill in Parliament, yet the party claims to stand with the people of Munambam fighting against the Waqf Board's land jihad. This blatant double standard exposes Communist hypocrisy..!!#WaqfAmendmentBill2024 pic.twitter.com/5tqLbvLcst
— Pratheesh Viswanath (@pratheesh_Hind) November 25, 2024
This double standard reflects the CPI(M)’s prioritization of political narratives over genuine solutions, exposing its willingness to exploit sensitive issues for gains. The party’s inability to maintain a consistent position undermines its credibility and betrays the trust of the people it claims to represent. The CPI(M)’s opportunism stands as yet another example of Communist hypocrisy in action.
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