Bengaluru: Legislative Council member C.T. Ravi has stirred significant controversy with his recent remarks about Waqf properties, where he suggested that individuals prioritising Sharia law should “go to Pakistan.” His comments were made during a press conference at Vidhana Soudha, where he urged the government to cease the issuance of notices to farmers under claims of Waqf property. Ravi alleged that Jamir Ahmad, who had recently visited the district, threatened officials into issuing these notices, exacerbating tensions surrounding land ownership and religious claims.
Ravi elaborated on the conditions under which land can be classified as Waqf, stating, “If donations were made with proper documentation, then they can be considered Waqf properties.” He explained that the government can classify land as Waqf property if it is purchased by the Waqf Board. However, he firmly asserted that properties declared as Waqf based on forged documents or self-initiated claims cannot be considered valid.
His remarks bring to the forefront the complexities of property ownership in India, especially regarding religious trusts. Ravi questioned the legitimacy of claims over properties that were donated by individuals who have since left the country, arguing, “There is no Sharia law here; only the Constitution prevails. Those who demand Sharia have already fled to Pakistan.” This statement reflects a broader political strategy that positions the Indian Constitution as the ultimate legal authority, especially in matters of land and property rights.
Ravi stressed the importance of adherence to constitutional norms in property claims, stating, “If you want to abide by the Constitution, stay here; if you want Sharia, go to Pakistan.” He further insisted that a thorough examination of properties claimed as Waqf is essential to ensure that no unjust encroachments on farmers’ rights occur. His call for scrutiny indicates a deep concern over the potential misuse of religious laws to appropriate land from local farmers.
In the context of the ongoing situation, Ravi noted that notices regarding Waqf properties have begun to be issued not only in Vijayapura but also in Yadgiri and Dharwad. He challenged the Chief Minister to act in a constitutional manner by revoking the Waqf designation of the disputed properties and registering them in the names of the farmers. He described this as a “litmus test” for the Chief Minister’s commitment to upholding the Constitution, asserting that this decision will reveal the government’s true intentions.
Meanwhile, in Hubballi, MP Jagadish Shettar echoed Ravi’s concerns, criticising the state government’s handling of the situation. Shettar described the issuance of notices by the Waqf Board as a failure of governance, claiming it reflects inadequate strategies for minority appeasement. He stressed the need for the government to retract the notices issued to farmers immediately, urging them to seek forgiveness for what he termed a consistent pattern of missteps regarding this issue.
The comments from both Ravi and Shettar have drawn attention to a growing discontent among farmers who feel their rights are being overlooked in favour of religious claims. The situation underscores the tensions that can arise when religious law intersects with civil governance and property rights.
C.T. Ravi’s remarks on Waqf properties have ignited a significant political debate, drawing attention to the complexities of land ownership and governance in India. His insistence on adhering to the Constitution rather than religious law resonates with many who seek clarity and justice in property claims. As the situation unfolds, the responses from the Chief Minister and the state government will be closely scrutinised, particularly in light of the political implications of these land disputes. The outcomes will likely influence not only local governance but also broader discussions on minority rights and property laws in India.