The controversy surrounding the Ambayathode poultry waste processing facility has once again erupted into a major political flashpoint, with the issue quickly emerging as a campaign tool ahead of the local body elections. What began as grassroots environmental agitation has now evolved into a political litmus test with all major parties trying to align with public sentiment against the plant’s continued operation.
“Public discontent is building across Thamarassery, Omassery, Kattippara and Kodenchery panchayats, home to more than 5,000 families directly affected by the alleged emissions and waste management issues of the power plant. It is clear that political party leaders are going to take over,” says a senior action committee functionary from Kodenchery panchayat. He points out that the residents remain agitated as they are very bothered by the persistent unpleasant smell, water pollution and health problems associated with the facility and are therefore looking for a solution from the energy centres.
Activists and leaders of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), the Muslim League of India, the Indian National Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party are now seemingly locked in an increasingly aggressive blame game over the issue, with each party trying to shape the public narrative. AK Shameer, a resident of Thamarassery panchayat, says allegations that some local leaders previously owned shares in the factory further fueled mistrust among voters.
At the center of the agitation is an action committee that has evolved into a protest platform and potential political force with members from diverse political backgrounds. Rafeeq Koodathayi, action committee member and IUML activist, makes it clear that there is no need to back down from the agitation as people are seeking justice. Some residents also suggest that quiet preparations are underway to put active militants on the action committee, while many ward members and panchayat presidents have started attending committee meetings, signaling the political sensitivity of the issue.
Meanwhile, the Kattippara grama panchayat authorities reiterated that the local body had never given permission to set up a waste management facility within its limits. They claim the project was approved by higher authorities after the factory operators appealed against the panchayat’s opposition. The claim sparked further outrage among some residents and highlighted the gap between local government and bureaucratic decision-making.
“The political dimensions around this issue have become more pronounced as the affected panchayats – currently under the control of the UDF – are taking an increasingly assertive stance in support of the protesters,” says a former local leader from the area. The IUML, a key component of the UDF, has been particularly active, mobilizing leaders and urging senior officials to make public statements demanding the factory’s closure, he adds.
However, rival parties began to sense an opportunity to project the turmoil as evidence of administrative failure under the United Democratic Front-led panchayats. At the same time, they are facing counter-allegations that it was the state government that facilitated the establishment of the factory, allegedly bypassing objections.
Published – 07 Nov 2025 20:11 IST
