Karnataka Issues Warning in Waqf Land Dispute with Farmers

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

Karnataka halted land transfer processes to the Waqf Board.
Officials warned against issuing eviction notices to farmers.
CM Siddaramaiah issued directives addressing farmers’ concerns.
Opposition leaders pressurized the government over the Waqf Act amendment.
Over 500 farmers involved in the land dispute fear eviction from agricultural lands.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

In Karnataka, the Waqf land dispute has become a serious political issue, as lands owned by farmers are allegedly being transferred under the Waqf Board’s name. The state government has now suspended all such processes, issuing a stern warning that any official issuing eviction notices to farmers would face strict action.

CM’s Strict Directive

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah directed regional and deputy commissioners to halt all pending cases and offer relief to affected farmers. The Chief Secretary informed officials that no action should be taken against any farmer cultivating on the disputed lands.

Opposition’s Resistance

Karnataka Assembly Opposition Leader R Ashoka wrote to Home Minister Amit Shah, requesting an immediate halt to all land registration processes. Ashoka accused the state government of expediting the land transfers to the Waqf Board in anticipation of amendments to the Waqf Act.

Key Cases in Dispute

This dispute has gained traction across several districts. Over 500 farmers in Karnataka’s northern districts have raised objections, fearing Waqf Board claims on their agricultural lands undermine their ownership rights.

Mounting Pressure on Agricultural Lands

The issue has become central to the ongoing political debate, especially ahead of the upcoming assembly by-elections. The government and opposition leaders continue their accusations, leaving little hope for a quick resolution to the growing dispute between the Waqf Board and local farmers.