Waqf issue: BJP stages Namma Bhoomi Namma Hakku protest in Bengaluru

Team Udayavani, Nov 22, 2024, 7:45 PM IST

Bengaluru: BJP leader and MLC C.T. Ravi accused the Congress party of indulging in appeasement politics, claiming that it has emboldened certain groups to claim ownership of historically significant properties. Speaking at the BJP-led “Namma Bhoomi Namma Hakku” protest at Freedom Park on Friday, he remarked, “When temples like Someshwara and ascetic Mathas flourished 1,500 years ago, there was no Allah or Maulanas. Where does the audacity to claim our land today come from? The root cause is Congress’ appeasement policies.”

Ravi criticized the Congress government for granting extensive powers to the Waqf Board, equating it to seeking justice from a wolf for a lamb. “Congress must decide whether it stands for Sharia law or the Constitution,” he said. He also warned Chief Minister Siddaramaiah about trusting Jamir Ahmed Khan, likening his position to that of Mysuru’s Queen Lakshmammanni, who had trusted Hyder Ali only to face betrayal.

“This arrogance stems from the excessive powers granted by Congress. Tomorrow, they might say Vidhana Soudha belongs to them and allow only prayers instead of discussions. In that case, Siddaramaiah will have to pack up his panche and leave,” he quipped.

A Fight to Protect the Constitution:

Ravi framed the protest as a fight to uphold constitutional values, opposing outdated practices like Aurangzeb’s Jizya tax in a democratic society. He demanded the repeal of the current Waqf Act, arguing that it violates constitutional principles by allowing land to be designated as Waqf property without documentation.

Siddaramaiah Criticized as ‘Kanna da Ramayya’:

Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka accused Siddaramaiah of plundering the state. “He sent Waqf Board notices to farmers who provide food, snatched BPL cards from the poor, and looted funds even in hospitals. Siddaramaiah has become Kanna da Ramayya—a leader looting the poor,” Ashoka said.

The protest is part of BJP’s ongoing campaign against the Congress government, claiming it prioritizes appeasement over constitutional values and fairness in governance.