New Delhi: Minister of State for Minority Affairs, George Kurian, on Friday called for the land claimed by the Waqf Board in Munambam, Kerala, to be returned to its rightful owners.

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha during a discussion on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, Kurian said the Waqf Board has to show the deed to prove its ownership.

"The rightful ownership of the land should be fully restored to the people of Munambam. Any provision of law that contradicts the principle of the Indian Constitution must be amended. The right of a religious minority as guaranteed by the Constitution should be safeguarded," Kurian said.

In the villages of Cherai and Munambam in Kerala’s Ernakulam district, locals have alleged that the Waqf Board is illegally asserting ownership over their lands and properties, despite having registered deeds and land tax payment receipts.

The minister said that Muslims in Kerala are very gentle and pious. He alleged that leaders of the opposition are trying to mislead the community. PTI