Waqf Board’s Land Claims Spark Massive Protest in Karnataka's Vijayapura
5 Nov 2024 4:07 AM IST
Vijayapura witnessed a large-scale protest on Sunday, as religious leaders, farmers, and BJP leaders rallied against the Waqf Board’s ownership claims over various lands, including agricultural properties. (Image: DC)
Vijayapura: Vijayapura witnessed a large-scale protest on Sunday, as religious leaders, farmers, and BJP leaders rallied against the Waqf Board’s ownership claims over various lands, including agricultural properties. The protest, led by prominent religious seers and political leaders, included a march from the historic Siddheshwar Temple to the Deputy Commissioner’s Office.
Under the banner “Waqf Hatao Desh Bachao” (Remove Waqf, Save the Nation), protestors raised concerns over the impact of Waqf Board notifications on local land ownership. Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje, MPs Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri and Ramesh Jigajinagi, and MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal led the protest. Among the religious leaders were Sri Adrushya Kaadasiddheshwar Swami of Kaneri Math, Sri Basava Mruthyunjaya Swamiji of Kudalasangama Panchamasali Peetha, joined by other seers who lent their support to the cause.
Leaders at the protest alleged that the Waqf Board, empowered by certain legal provisions, was overreaching by claiming lands historically belonging to Hindu institutions and farmers.
BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, a vocal critic on this issue, condemned what he described as a concerted effort to enforce Waqf claims on a massive scale.
The protestors demanded the repeal of the 1974 Waqf Act and called for amendments to the 2013 Act. They also insisted that Waqf property claims be removed from farmers' land records.
Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje and other leaders expressed their support, pledging to continue the protest indefinitely if the demands are not met.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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