Karnataka Waqf Controversy: Politics at Play

Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan accuses BJP of politicizing the Waqf issue to gain an advantage in the upcoming Karnataka by-polls and Maharashtra elections. Allegations suggest farmers' lands were marked as Waqf properties. Khan assures farmers' lands won't be taken, and issues stem from errors in notifications.

In a developing story in Karnataka, Housing Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan has accused the BJP of using the Waqf issue as a political tool ahead of crucial by-elections in the state and assembly elections in Maharashtra. According to Khan, the BJP has been unjustly politicizing the land disputes connected to Waqf properties in various districts, with the aim to sway voters.

Khan emphasized that as the Minister in charge of Waqf, he is committed to protecting farmers from losing their lands amid allegations that certain properties were wrongly labeled as Waqf lands. He noted that errors in government notifications have led to confusion, particularly in Tikota taluk's Honavada, and steps are being taken to rectify these issues. In support, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has assured affected farmers that eviction notices would be withdrawn.

The contentious issue has brought about political challenges for Khan, with opposition parties criticizing his handling. Nevertheless, Khan staunchly defends his agenda, indicating that BJP's stance against Muslims stems from their lack of electoral support from the community.

(With inputs from agencies.)