Former MP and BJP leader Pratap Simha has voiced his outrage regarding recent notices issued by the Waqf Board, which assert ownership of ancestral lands belonging to farmers in North Karnataka. Speaking to the media in Mysuru, Simha challenged the basis of the Waqf Board’s claims, raising pointed questions about the origins of the properties.
Simha was particularly vocal, asking, “Where did this Waqf property come from for Muslims? Did it come from Akbar, Aurangzeb, Jinnah, or some mullahs from Saudi Arabia? From whom did they inherit these lands?” His remarks reflect a deep scepticism towards the Waqf Board’s authority and its historical claims.
He cited specific instances, such as in Hunsur, Mysore, where the Waqf Board has laid claim to 17 acres belonging to the Ganesh Temple. “They bring someone’s remains, bury them, and then call it theirs. The same thing is happening in Chikmagalur. Mullas are issuing notices to every visible piece of land, saying, ‘This is ours,’” Simha fumed, indicating his belief that the board is overreaching in its claims.
Simha further questioned the Waqf Board’s practices, particularly regarding land use and community support. He asked, “Have you ever seen them distribute food to the needy in mosques or churches like it’s done in our temples and monasteries?” This critique aimed to highlight what he perceives as a lack of social responsibility from the Waqf Board regarding its lands.
The former MP did not hold back in his criticism of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, accusing him of providing selective support to Hindu deities, particularly during times of political or personal crises. “When MUDA issues arise, he remembers Chamundeshwari and Hasanamba. It’s our Hindu gods who come to his aid, not gods from any other religion. I hope he’ll refrain from taking a stand against Hindus now,” Simha remarked. He urged the Prime Minister to consider abolishing the Waqf Act and dismantling the Waqf Board entirely.
On the topic of the ongoing investigation into the MUDA scam, Simha expressed optimism about the Enforcement Directorate’s involvement. He stated, “With the Enforcement Directorate investigating, there’s hope MUDA will be cleaned up. All sites illegally acquired through the 50:50 rule should be reclaimed. Mysore needs a good Urban Development Authority and quality representatives.”
He also praised fellow BJP leader Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, recognising him as a strong advocate against Waqf encroachments and expressing commitment to uncovering the truth behind the land claims.
Simha concluded with remarks on Siddaramaiah’s evolving relationship with Hinduism, suggesting that the Chief Minister’s recent displays of faith were insincere. “Initially, he would throw away the saffron shawl, but after the MUDA case, he’s shown belief in the Hindu faith. I believe our Hindu gods will continue to protect Siddaramaiah,” he asserted, implying a shift in Siddaramaiah’s political stance rather than a genuine spiritual awakening.