Sat Mar 08 18:24:46 UTC 2025: **BJP MP Alleges Widespread Misuse of Waqf Lands in Karnataka**
Bengaluru, March 8, 2025 – BJP Rajya Sabha MP Lehar Singh Siroya has accused influential individuals and those previously in power in Karnataka of misusing, manipulating, and misappropriating Waqf lands. Presenting a 40,000-page document compilation at a press conference today, Siroya claimed the documents, obtained through RTI requests and bearing the Karnataka Lokayukta seal, reveal widespread corruption affecting the minority community.
The documents, sourced from every district in Karnataka and originally submitted to a 2012 commission of enquiry, allegedly detail decades of compromised interests for the minority community. Siroya, while refraining from naming individuals, stated that the report demonstrates how those entrusted with safeguarding Waqf properties instead exploited them for personal gain.
Siroya’s allegations come amidst reports that the Karnataka government plans to pass a resolution against the central government’s Waqf legislation. He accused the Congress party of using the resolution to deflect attention from the alleged corruption, shielding powerful individuals from scrutiny under the guise of protecting federal principles. He urged the Congress to address the corruption issue before raising concerns about federalism.
The MP highlighted that the report, which he described as highly incriminating and deliberately suppressed, is not in the government’s records or public domain. He further pointed to the missing file related to Gulbarga Waqf properties, which was reportedly sent to a minister during Siddaramaiah’s first term. Siroya expressed concern that the file may have been destroyed. He stated that the report points directly to Muthawallis/Sajjada/Managing Committees as being primarily responsible for the loss and misuse of Waqf properties.
Siroya’s accusations have escalated the already tense situation between the state and central governments regarding Waqf legislation. The BJP MP has called for a thorough investigation into the alleged misuse of Waqf lands and for justice to be served to the affected minority community.
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