Thu Dec 12 17:08:56 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka Waqf Minister Clarifies Intent on Land Dispute

**Belagavi, Dec 12, 2024** – Karnataka’s Minister for Waqf, B.Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan, addressed concerns in the Legislative Council Thursday regarding the state’s waqf adalats (courts). The Minister stated his intention is solely to reclaim approximately 17,000 acres of encroached waqf property, emphatically denying any plans to claim ownership of temple or farmer lands.

Khan clarified that the issuance of notices, a process he stated was standard procedure and ultimately decided by revenue officials, had been highest during the BJP’s tenure. He highlighted his practice of inviting local MLAs and Deputy Commissioners to waqf adalat meetings, citing the example of Vijayapura where he invited, but did not receive, BJP MLA Basanagouda R. Patil Yatnal. A subsequent protest regarding a supposed 1200-acre waqf claim in Govinhalli was clarified as only 11 acres by the Deputy Commissioner.

Khan appealed to the Opposition, urging them to refrain from further controversy. He asserted his focus remained solely on removing encroachments and invited any reports of irregularities to ensure appropriate rectifications. The debate, conducted under Rule 68, involved several legislators including B.K. Hariprasad, Umashree, Naseer Ahmed, Pratapsimha Nayak, P.H. Pujar and Leader of the Opposition Chalavadi Narayanaswamy.

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