BJP State Vice President Rupali Naik has raised serious allegations against the Waqf Board, claiming there is a concerted nationwide effort to seize land under its name. Speaking at a press conference in Karwar on Friday, Naik asserted that the Narendra Modi-led government is committed to addressing land grabs, which includes considering amendments to the Waqf Act.
Naik specifically targeted Karnataka ministers, alleging that figures like Zameer Ahmed are exerting pressure on officials to change land records to reflect Waqf ownership. She expressed concern over the statements made by Ahmed, suggesting they are irresponsible for someone in a position of authority, and hinted at possible backing from the Chief Minister. “There are suspicions that he might be supported by the Chief Minister,” Naik stated, further escalating the political tension surrounding the issue.
In response to these allegations, District BJP President N.S. Hegde announced plans for a protest titled ‘Remove Waqf from Pahani, Save Our Lands’ on November 4. This demonstration will take place at every taluk centre in the district as a direct challenge to the actions taken under the Waqf Act. Hegde emphasised the need for clarity, stating, “When the Modi government raised this issue in Parliament, opposition leaders voiced resistance. Now, in Karnataka, farmers’ pahani (land records) are being labeled as Waqf property.”
The ongoing concerns about land records have ignited protests among local farmers who fear losing their land to what they perceive as unjust claims. Hegde asserted that Zameer Ahmad Khan has publicly stated that these alterations are being made under the Chief Minister’s directive. He called for the Chief Minister to either clarify the situation or align with the central government’s efforts to amend the Waqf Bill.
The press conference also featured other prominent BJP leaders, including City Council President Raviraj Ankolekar and party members Sanjay Salunkhe, Nagraj Naik, Subhash Gunagi, Kishan Kamble, Sujata Bandekar, and Pooja Naik. Their presence underscored the party’s unified stance against the alleged land grab attempts and their commitment to defending farmers’ rights.
The allegations made by Naik and Hegde reflect a growing concern among BJP leaders about land ownership issues, particularly as they relate to the Waqf Board. As the situation develops, tensions between the BJP and opposing parties are likely to escalate, with both sides digging in their heels over the interpretation and implementation of the Waqf Act.
In summary, the accusations made by the BJP highlight significant political divisions in Karnataka regarding land ownership and the perceived misuse of authority. The upcoming protests will serve as a platform for the party to rally support and challenge the government’s actions in this contentious matter.