Bengaluru, Nov 10 (UNI) Amid a fierce backlash from the opposition, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has issued an order to halt the ongoing land mutation process, following allegations that the Congress government transferred farmers' lands to the Waqf Board through alterations in land records.
The move effectively suspends the updating of property ownership in the state’s official land records, overseen by the revenue department.
The BJP has launched a vigorous campaign, accusing CM Siddaramaiah and his government of misappropriating agricultural lands.
In response to this mounting pressure, the Revenue Department, led by its Principal Secretary, has issued a directive to all Regional and Deputy Commissioners, instructing them to halt further land mutation actions. This directive aims to protect farmers currently tilling the affected lands while the issue is under review.
B Uday Kumar Shetty, Additional Secretary of the Revenue Department, emphasised in his directive that previous official communications issued on April 15, April 24, and most recently on November 7, should be withdrawn with immediate effect.
He also noted that disciplinary action would be taken against officials who, despite explicit directions, implemented the contentious order dated November 7.
The decision follows a high-level meeting on Saturday, chaired by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, which was convened in response to numerous complaints from farmers claiming that their lands had been listed as Waqf properties.
Opposition leaders, including Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, have called on farmers to resist any official attempts to claim ownership of their lands on behalf of the Waqf Board, stirring support among rural communities.
BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil has further intensified the opposition’s stance by staging an indefinite strike in Vijayapura, demanding that authorities withdraw notices issued to farmers regarding the Waqf Board claims.
Additionally, Yatnal has called for the nationalisation of Waqf properties to ensure equitable benefits for all sections of society, framing the issue as one of public welfare.
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