North Galolhu Constituency MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) has filed an amendment to Parliament, which states that if the government wants to take plots under the jurisdiction of local councils, they have to hold discussions with the council and its residents.

As per the amendment filed to the Decentralization Act by Thulhaadhoo Constituency MP Abdul Hannan on Wednesday, if the government required plots under an island's jurisdiction, the plot can be taken for project purposes.

According to Ibrahim's amendment, a plot, uninhabited island or lagoon that is under the jurisdiction of an island or city council cannot be taken by the government unless it is discussed with the council itself.

Hannan's amendment reads that a plot, island or lagoon under a council's jurisdiction can be taken from them via a decision from a Cabinet meeting.

Ibrahim's amendment states that this cannot be done unless a discussion with the respective council is held.

Ibrahim's amendment also reads that if a plot is to be taken away, a discussion is to be held with the council and additionally, a public forum must be held in order to gauge public opinion on the matter.

The amendment further states that if the government wants to take plots under council jurisdiction, the government must share all of the relevant information with the public.

Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) have expressed that they are against MP Abdul Hannan's amendment and have been heavily criticizing it. Some MPs allege that the bill was handed to MP Hannan by the government.