BJP Demands CBI Probe Into Waqf Land Encroachment Allegations in Karnataka

Mangaluru: With the Waqf property issue intensifying, BJP leaders are pressing the state government for a CBI investigation into the findings of the decade-old Manippady report, which details alleged misappropriations and illegal encroachments on Waqf properties across Karnataka.

BJP leader Anwar Manippady, then Minority Commission Chairperson, submitted a report to the government in 2012, documenting the illegal encroachment of Waqf properties. BJP leaders are now urging the state to conduct a CBI probe.

"Anwar Manippady submitted a report on Waqf land encroachments, naming senior Congress leaders including Mallikarjun Kharge and Qamar ul Islam. If the state government is serious about waqf property, let them enforce the Manippady report. If they lack confidence in Manippady, they should go for a CBI probe," said Bijapur MLA Basangouda Patil Yatnal.

Former Chief Minister and Haveri MP Basavaraj Bommai echoed this call for action, urging the Chief Minister to launch an SIT or CBI investigation into the report’s findings.

Dakshina Kannada MP Brijesh Chowta has also echoed these demands. At a press conference, Chowta highlighted that 54,000 acres of land are registered with the Waqf Board, and according to the Manippady report, around 29,000 acres of this land has been encroached upon. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive investigation and penalties for those who have illegally occupied these properties.