THRISSUR : The inauguration of the much-awaited Lulu Mall in Thrissur has been pushed back by almost three years, with Lulu Group Chairman M. A. Yusuffali attributing the delay to legal and political hurdles.
Initially slated to open in mid-2023, the project was expected to generate around 3,000 direct jobs and boost Thrissur’s retail landscape. However, a court case contesting the use of the land has stalled progress. The petition, filed soon after Lulu acquired the property, alleged that the land was classified as farmland. The matter is still pending before the Kerala High Court, preventing the project from moving forward.
Yusuffali voiced disappointment over the prolonged wait, noting that despite such setbacks, the company remains committed to seeing the project through.
“Business ventures in India often face unexpected obstacles. But we are determined. Once the legal issues are cleared, Lulu Mall in Thrissur will certainly become a reality,” he said.
The controversy has also triggered political reactions. Lulu Group indicated that the litigation was initiated by an individual with links to a political party. In response, CPI leaders denied institutional involvement, stressing that the case was a personal action by the complainant, not a party-driven effort.
For now, the project remains in limbo, highlighting how legal disputes and political sensitivities can delay large-scale investments. Still, with Lulu already operating several successful malls across India, expectations remain high that the Thrissur venture will eventually open its doors once the impasse is resolved.