Muslim League MLA Calls for Malappuram District Split; K.T. Jaleel Challenges UDF on Manifesto Inclusion
Malappuram: Ahead of the upcoming elections, a Muslim League MLA has reignited the long-standing demand for the division of Malappuram district. Tirur MLA Kurukkoli Moideen has publicly advocated for the formation of a new coastal district, proposing to include the taluks of Tanur, Tirurangadi, and Ponnani.
Moideen argues that such a division is crucial for ensuring equitable development across the region, making it proportional to the district’s significant population. However, the Muslim League as a party has not yet officially endorsed this demand, leading to political speculation.
Responding to Moideen’s proposal, former minister and independent MLA K.T. Jaleel issued a challenge, questioning whether the United Democratic Front (UDF), of which the Muslim League is a key constituent, would include this demand in its upcoming election manifesto.
This is not the first instance of calls for Malappuram’s division. In 2019, Muslim League MLA K.N.A. Khader had presented a calling attention motion in the Legislative Assembly advocating for the formation of a new district from parts of Malappuram. Earlier, in 2015, the Malappuram District Panchayat had also passed a resolution supporting the same demand. Independent MLA P.V. Anvar has also previously voiced his opinion that Malappuram district should be divided.
Malappuram is one of Kerala’s largest and most populous districts. According to the 2011 census, the district had a population of 4,110,956, spread across an area of 3,550 square kilometers. The district was formed on June 16, 1969, and currently comprises 7 taluks, 15 block panchayats, and 94 grama panchayats. Its 12 municipalities include Malappuram, Manjeri, Kondotty, Tirur, Ponnani, Perinthalmanna, Nilambur, Kottakkal, Valanchery, Tanur, Parappanangadi, and Tirurangadi. The high population density and administrative challenges inherent in managing such a vast region are often cited as reasons for the proposed bifurcation.