IUML and Youth Congress Face Scrutiny Over Wayanad Rehabilitation Projects

Wayanad: The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) is facing internal dissent and public criticism following revelations regarding the purchase of estate land in Mundakkai for rehabilitating disaster-affected families in Wayanad, Kerala. Meanwhile, the Youth Congress has also come under scrutiny for alleged irregularities in the Chooralmala housing initiative, another post-disaster rehabilitation effort in the region.

Within the Muslim League, party workers and mid-level functionaries have expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of transparency surrounding the land deal. It is alleged that a group of leaders, led by the district general secretary, T Muhammad proceeded with the land purchase without informing the district committee or other key party bodies.

Concerns had been raised by several members that the proposed land was estate land, which could involve legal and regulatory challenges for rehabilitation purposes. However, party leadership reportedly dismissed these concerns. Subsequent confirmation from the landowners that the property is indeed estate land has triggered further criticism.

Of particular concern is the valuation of the land. While similar properties in the area are estimated to cost between Rs. 15,000 and Rs. 50,000 per cent, the land in question was reportedly purchased for up to Rs. 1.22 lakh per cent. The seller is said to be a relative of a senior IUML leader, raising questions over conflict of interest and procurement processes.

Senior leaders, including State President Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal, had stated that there were no legal hurdles in acquiring the land. However, with conflicting information now emerging, the leadership faces growing demands for transparency within the party and its mass organisations.

The IUML had raised approximately Rs. 40 crore from the public for disaster relief efforts, and party sources claim that over Rs. 12 crore has been spent on land procurement so far. However, the latest developments have led to calls for a working committee meeting to review the decisions made and the financial aspects of the rehabilitation project.

In a separate but related matter, the Youth Congress’s rehabilitation effort in Chooralmala has also come under public scrutiny. There has been criticism over the lack of transparency regarding the funds raised for the Chooralmala project. While the Youth Congress had conducted widespread crowdfunding campaigns and received significant public support, financial reporting and accountability measures have been absent.