Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, has vehemently condemned the recent issuance of notices by the Waqf Board, asserting claims of ownership over land belonging to farmers, Hindu temples, and other religious institutions. During a press conference held at the Iwan-e-Shahi guest house in Kalaburagi, he stated, “It seems like the mosques are running the state,” calling for the immediate dissolution of the Waqf Board.
Narayanaswamy expressed grave concerns regarding incidents in various districts, including Bijapur, Yadgir, Kalaburagi, Tumkur, and Chitradurga, where farmland owned by local farmers has been marked as Waqf property. He lamented that mosques have been sending notices to the government, claiming ownership over lands in these areas. “The situation has escalated to a point where it feels as if mosques are assuming control of governance,” he asserted, urging for the board’s disbandment and demanding transparency regarding its actual property holdings.
“This is Hindustan, not anyone’s private property. If this continues, it could spell disaster for the country,” he warned, highlighting the potential repercussions of such actions on communal harmony and land rights.
In his remarks, Narayanaswamy also touched upon the recent developments concerning the Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA), noting the return of 14 sites and five acres previously acquired by the Siddhartha Trust back to the government. He took a subtle jab at Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, expressing disappointment over the lack of respect for the rule of law under the current administration.
“This government promised 40% governance but is now taking 60%,” he charged, condemning the administration’s perceived failures and questioning its commitment to development and justice for the citizens.
On the topic of internal reservation, Narayanaswamy accused the government of using delay tactics regarding a Cabinet meeting to address the matter. He highlighted that a report on internal reservation had already been prepared, yet the government is stalling, recalling that they had pledged to implement the policy within 24 hours of taking office. “This government is synonymous with deception. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah should step down immediately,” he demanded.
Further escalating his criticisms, Narayanaswamy called for a comprehensive CBI investigation into alleged corruption within the Kalyana Karnataka Development Board, claiming that the region is being pushed towards ruin due to mismanagement and corruption.
Accompanying him at the press conference were notable BJP leaders, including MLA Basavaraj Mattimud, MLC B.G. Patil, and BJP Rural District President Shivaraj Patil Raddewadgi, all of whom echoed his sentiments regarding the urgency of the situation.