Karnataka BJP MP Claims Misuse of Waqf Land
Allegations of Misuse of Waqf Lands in Karnataka
In a recent press conference, BJP Rajya Sabha MP Lehar Singh Siroya made shocking allegations of the misuse, manipulation, and misappropriation of Waqf lands in Karnataka. He presented a 40,000-page document that he claimed contained evidence of how influential people and those in power have cheated the minority community that trusted them to safeguard their interests.
Authenticity of the Documents
During the press conference, Mr. Siroya emphasized that the documents he presented were obtained from every district in Karnataka and were filed by the deputy commissioners themselves. He stated that these documents, authenticated by the seal of the Karnataka Lokayukta, provide a detailed account of how Waqf lands have been misused over the years.
Collapse of the Commission of Enquiry
Mr. Siroya also mentioned the commission of enquiry set up by the Karnataka government under Karnataka Upa Lokayukta Justice N Anand in 2012, which, according to him, met a strange fate under the Congress regime in 2016. He expressed concerns about the fate of the investigation and urged for justice to be served to the minority community.
Political Response and Criticism
The BJP MP criticized the Congress party for attempting to portray the central government’s Waqf legislation as a violation of the federal principle. He accused the Congress of shielding powerful colleagues and friends from scrutiny and called for a deeper investigation into the corruption surrounding Waqf lands in Karnataka.
Call for Transparency and Accountability
Mr. Siroya highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in dealing with Waqf properties. He urged the Congress party to address corruption issues first before raising concerns about federalism. He emphasized the importance of seeking justice for the minority community and ensuring that those responsible for the misappropriation of Waqf lands are held accountable.
Ongoing Investigations and Concerns
The MP also raised concerns about a missing file related to Gulbarga Waqf properties, which reportedly went to a minister during the previous government’s term and has not been returned to the department. He called for the immediate retrieval of the file and expressed hope that it has not been destroyed.
Overall, the allegations made by Lehar Singh Siroya have brought to light significant issues surrounding the misuse of Waqf lands in Karnataka. The call for justice and accountability in safeguarding the interests of the minority community is crucial in addressing the corruption and manipulation of these valuable properties.