Resolution on Waqf Act sparks political firestorm

Bengaluru: Opposition BJP lashed out at the govt over the resolution against the Centre's proposed amendments to the Waqf Act, accusing it of appeasement politics and triggering a political slugfest with Congress defending the move. BJP accused the govt of shielding "illegal encroachments and land grabbers", but the govt said the decision is aimed at "protecting Karnataka's rights".
BJP state president BY Vijayendra alleged the resolution is an attempt to cover up corruption. "Chief minister Siddaramaiah wants to protect land grabbers and the land mafia, who have looted farmers in the name of the Waqf Board," he said.
He accused Congress functionaries of being involved in the "waqf scam" and vowed BJP would "expose them". "Several Congress functionaries have misused the Waqf Act," he said. "Under the guise of the Waqf Board, a gang of Congress politicians is set to illegally acquire properties worth thousands of crores, and the govt is shielding them — there is no doubt about it."
On the issue of reservation, Vijayendra said, "Mandating 4% reservation for Muslims in govt contracts is very unfortunate. Doesn't the CM see people in the Hindu community? Why this appeasement politics? The state's law and order situation is deteriorating by the day due to this appeasement. BJP will take to the streets on issues of waqf and reservation for Muslims."
However, health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao shrugged off the remarks as an attempt to target minorities. "BJP is using every possible means to discriminate against and harass minorities. This is blatant and deliberate," Rao said.
He said the state govt had every right to oppose the Centre's amendments. "The Waqf Act allows decisions to be made at the state level, but the central govt is now taking away these powers. This is not correct. So, we have expressed serious reservations on the issue," he said.
Medical education minister Sharan Prakash Patil also criticised the Centre, stating that its proposed legislation "deliberately targets minorities" and is aimed at creating mistrust among people.
BJP also took aim at the govt for hiking electricity tariffs, accusing it of burdening citizens while focusing on appeasement politics. "Ever since Congress formed the govt, its only contribution to the people has been inflation. That is the only guarantee they have implemented," Vijayendra said.
The first-time MLA also claimed that while the govt promises free electricity, it is increasing tariffs, impacting farmers and businesses. "Farmers are facing a crisis as the govt cannot ensure seven-hour supply of three-phase power," he said.
But Congress functionaries defended the govt, stating that 85% of consumers would not be affected since they receive free electricity under the Gruha Jyothi scheme. "BJP lacks common sense. More than 85% of consumers fall under the free power scheme, yet they are speaking on behalf of the rich who own industries," Sharan Patil said.