Mon Oct 28 21:41:00 UTC 2024: ## BJP Alleges ‘Land Jihad’ by Karnataka Government, Demands Clarification from CM Siddaramaiah
**Vijayapura, Karnataka:** Opposition leader R. Ashoka has accused the Congress government of orchestrating a “land jihad” in Karnataka, alleging that the state Wakf Board is attempting to seize land from poor farmers in the name of Wakf properties. He has demanded immediate clarification from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on the matter.
Ashoka alleged that the Wakf Board, with the government’s tacit approval, is issuing notices to 139 farmers in Honwad village of Vijayapura district, targeting approximately 12,000 acres of land. He claims this is part of a larger scheme to seize 15,000 acres across the district.
“This is a clear case of land grab by the government. They are using the Wakf Board as a tool to dispossess Hindu farmers,” Ashoka said in a press statement. He further accused the government of turning a blind eye to instances of “love jihad” and the alleged “celebration” of Pakistan in the state.
He alleged that Minister for Wakf, Zameer Ahmed, is acting as a “modern-day Tipu Sultan” by attempting to acquire land illegally and using the Wakf Board to achieve his goals. He also accused the Congress government of being involved in “looting” of MUDAs and CEs, while simultaneously allowing Zameer Ahmed to carry out this alleged land grab.
Ashoka further stated that farmers in Vijayapura have decided to boycott Diwali celebrations in protest against this alleged “land jihad” and the government’s inaction. He warned that the Congress government will face the wrath of the farmers for “snatching” their land and their livelihoods.
He also criticized the state Wakf Board for opposing the proposed amendments to the Wakf Act by the central government, calling it a “deliberate attempt” to seize land in Karnataka before the new law comes into effect.
Ashoka demanded that the state government clarify its stand on the matter and inform the public about the notices served to Hindu temples and other religious institutions in Vijayapura. He urged the CM and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar to explain whether this “land jihad” was a part of their election manifesto.
He concluded by expressing his concern for the safety and security of Hindus in the state, claiming they are living in fear due to the alleged actions of the government and the Wakf Board.
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