IUML Seeks District Reorganisation Based on Population in Keralam
IUML Keralam general secretary P M A Salam said the League was not demanding the creation of a district in any particular region but wanted a population-based reorganisation of districts
Malappuram: The IUML on Monday said districts in Kerala should be reorganised based on population to ensure equitable distribution of resources, amid a renewed debate over the demand for a separate Muvattupuzha district.
There has been a longstanding demand from various organisations associated with the Indian Union Muslim League, a key constituent of the Congress-led UDF, to bifurcate Muslim-dominated Malappuram in view of its rising population.
Right-wing political outfits have opposed the League's demand, saying it could have wider political implications.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, IUML Keralam general secretary P M A Salam said the League was not demanding the creation of a district in any particular region but wanted a population-based reorganisation of districts.
"The League is not saying that a district should be created in a particular region or place. We are of the view that districts should be reorganised based on population. Otherwise, there will be discrimination in the allocation of resources," Salam said.
He said Malappuram, with a population of more than 45 lakh, and Pathanamthitta, with around 10 lakh people, received the same facilities at the district level.
"Every Keralite should get the benefits and other facilities they are entitled to. Districts with a population of 20 lakh have more taluks than Malappuram district. Such irrationality should be changed," he said.
Salam said the League's stand should not be interpreted as a demand to divide Malappuram alone or create a new district with Tirur as its headquarters.
"This is the League's clear stand. This does not mean that only Malappuram district should be divided. We are not saying that Malappuram district should be divided into two with Tirur as the headquarters. Reorganisation based on population is essential," he said.
Salam's remarks came a day after Chief Minister V D Satheesan said the state government would examine the demand for a separate Muvattupuzha district.
Satheesan was addressing a gathering at an event organised by the Muvattupuzha Municipality in Ernakulam district. Earlier, Muvattupuzha MLA Mathew Kuzhalnadan had alleged that the region had been neglected during the 10-year rule of the LDF government and renewed the demand for a separate district.
Muvattupuzha is currently part of Ernakulam district and lies close to the Idukki border. Various organisations have for long demanded a separate district by combining parts of eastern Ernakulam with low-lying areas of Idukki.
Satheesan said he had taken note of the grievances raised by Kuzhalnadan and assured that the developmental backlog in Muvattupuzha would be addressed.
"I felt a slight sadness because Muvattupuzha would be separated from my own district. Nevertheless, that matter is also being seriously examined. This government will bring a Delimitation Commission. That request will certainly be considered in that process," Satheesan had said.
