BENGALURU: A storm is brewing in Karnataka as allegations against the state government and Waqf Board continue to escalate. Recent revelations suggest that the Waqf Board has not only attempted to claim farmers’ lands but is now eyeing several historic monuments across the state. Critics argue that these moves represent a serious overreach by the Waqf Board, potentially undermining both individual land rights and public heritage.
The controversy began when it was reported that farmers across multiple districts found their land titles altered, with Waqf claims added to their Pahani records without prior notice. These documents, essential for recording ownership and land use, were changed without the knowledge or consent of the affected landowners, leading to widespread protests. Now, the Waqf Board has also laid claim to over 53 historic sites, including revered landmarks such as the Gol Gumbaz in Vijayapura, the Ibrahim Roza, and the forts of Bidar and Kalaburagi.
Documents obtained through RTI inquiries reveal that in 2005, the Waqf Board unilaterally declared 43 protected monuments in Vijayapura as Waqf property. The then Vijayapura deputy commissioner Mohammed Mohisin who was also then district waqf board chairman was instrumental in making the change. Allegedly, this classification was done without consulting the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the statutory custodian of these heritage sites. Critics argue this reflects a disturbing pattern of overreach by the Waqf Board, enabled by the state government’s tacit support.
Many are questioning the role of the state government in this issue. While Chief Minister Siddaramaiah recently directed officials to withdraw notices issued to farmers, he stopped short of addressing the fundamental problem of unauthorized changes to land records and the unchecked power of the Waqf Board. The government’s response has been described as reactionary, with critics claiming that it only took these steps due to mounting public pressure rather than a commitment to transparency and justice.
Furthermore, several senior politicians and activists argue that the Waqf Board’s land claims appear to be motivated by financial interests. These historical monuments, designated as national heritage sites, hold immense cultural and tourism value, and any assertion of ownership could potentially open up opportunities for revenue generation or control over lucrative land assets. The move has been called an exploitation of religious authority to amass wealth and control, sparking outrage among the general public.
Legal experts have also voiced concerns, pointing out that the unilateral actions by the Waqf Board could undermine Karnataka’s secular and democratic framework. “This issue is far beyond mere property claims,” said one legal commentator. “If religious boards can assert ownership over public lands and historical monuments without oversight, it sets a dangerous precedent for unchecked authority and interference in public affairs.”
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah Issues Orders for Withdrawal
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has issued a strict directive on Saturday to officials to immediately withdraw the notices given to farmers regarding Waqf property. The CM instructed that no further disturbances be caused to farmers.
During a long meeting with senior officials from the Revenue, Minority Welfare, and Waqf departments, Siddaramaiah expressed strong dissatisfaction over recent actions taken on the Waqf land issue. He noted that the JD(S) and BJP are using the issue for political gains and attempting to create unrest in the state.
The CM urged citizens to ignore false propaganda and asked officials to act with caution, emphasizing that no decision should harm farmers. Key decisions made during the meeting included the immediate withdrawal of existing notices, ensuring that farmers’ lands remain undisturbed, and canceling any unauthorized amendments in land records.
Opposition parties, including the JD(S) and BJP, have accused the Congress-led government of turning a blind eye to the Waqf Board’s actions, claiming that this is a deliberate political strategy to appease certain voter blocs. These parties argue that the government’s initial silence on the issue was a sign of implicit support for the Board’s overreach. “The state government is allowing an institution to act as a law unto itself, disregarding the rights of citizens and the heritage of the state,” stated a BJP spokesperson.
Meanwhile, farmers and residents affected by the land claims have vowed to intensify their protests. Many are demanding that the state government take definitive action against what they perceive as unlawful encroachment of their lands. Public sentiment is growing against the government’s perceived inaction and the Waqf Board’s overreach, with calls for an independent investigation into the matter.
BJP MLA Alleged Land Jihad
Shivamogga BJP MLA Channabasappa launched a fierce attack on the Karnataka state government, accusing it of supporting the Waqf Board in acquiring lands belonging to farmers, the government, and the common people. Speaking in Shivamogga, on Saturday he claimed that the Congress government’s inaction has allowed the Waqf Board to exert undue influence over land matters across the state.
In response to reports of Waqf notices being issued to farmers in multiple districts, Channabasappa alleged that the Waqf Board is engaging in what he termed “land jihad.” He stated, “After love jihad, now they have started land jihad, and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is encouraging this by empowering the Waqf Board.” Channabasappa further claimed that in anticipation of the central government’s move to bring amendments to the Waqf Act, the Board is rushing to take control of thousands of hectares of land.
The MLA criticised Waqf Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, remarking, “If you truly revere Allah, then donate your own property to Waqf.” He warned Khan against visiting Shivamogga, implying that the people of the district would not welcome him if such actions continue. Channabasappa also accused the Waqf Board of falsely claiming ownership over historic sites, municipal lands, and even temples, alleging that it threatens the heritage and unity of the Hindu community.
Channabasappa alleged that in Shivamogga alone, over 44 acres of land were marked as Waqf property without justification. “Even the Eidgah Maidan in front of the DC office, which is municipal property, was claimed by the Waqf Board,” he said. He further mentioned that the Shivappa Nayaka dynasty’s burial ground was also allegedly included in Waqf property.
Criticizing the Congress-led government, he accused them of neglecting temple funds while allocating Rs 31 crore for the protection of Waqf properties. He further warned, “If such policies continue, they may incite anger among the Hindu population, risking tensions in the state. If attempts to divide people based on religion persist, it will lead to unrest,” he cautioned.
As the debate around Waqf properties in Karnataka intensifies, the opposition BJP has pledged to stand with farmers and local communities, promising to challenge any attempts by the Waqf Board to claim land without transparency and due process.
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