Mangaluru: The Dakshina Kannada Muslim Elected Representatives Federation has voiced strong support for two forthcoming protest gatherings opposing the Waqf Amendment Act. The first rally, organised by local ulemas, is scheduled at Adyar on April 18, while the second, spearheaded by the Muslim Central Committee, will take place on April 29.
Federation president Siraj Bajpe, speaking to the media on Wednesday, said the protests aim to counter a misinformation campaign targeting waqf properties and the Waqf Board. “A false impression is being created that any land termed waqf automatically becomes Waqf Board property. Some even wrongly claim that the Board is taking over Hindu-owned lands to benefit Muslims,” he said.
Siraj accused the Modi-led central government of introducing amendments that serve capitalist interests under the pretext of protecting waqf lands. “These changes seem designed to legitimize private resorts, commercial complexes, and luxury residences built on waqf properties,” he alleged.
He further criticised the government’s intentions, alleging that it seeks to polarise communities and disrupt the traditionally peaceful ties between Hindus and Muslims for political mileage.
Targeting so-called secular political parties, Siraj claimed that several of them, after gaining minority votes, have aligned with communal factions for power. “They’ve abandoned secular values, but the electorate will respond appropriately,” he warned.
The federation urged Muslim elected officials to educate constituents about the Act’s impact. “The matter is currently under judicial review in the Supreme Court, and we believe justice will triumph,” Siraj concluded.
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