Belgaum

In a recent press conference in Belgaum, former Chief Minister and Member of Parliament Jagdish Shettar raised serious concerns over the government’s handling of land belonging to farmers, specifically regarding Waqf claims. Shettar criticized the Revenue Minister, Krishnabyre Gowda, for presenting himself as proactive while, in reality, farmers have been issued notices affecting their land.

Shettar pointed out that the government has proposed notices for approximately 12,000 to 14,000 acres of farmland, deeming this action as indicative of a stupid government. He further emphasized the need for accountability, questioning why notices were being issued without proper justification.

The situation has sparked unrest in Vijayapur district, where the in-charge minister claimed ownership of eleven acres of land while suggesting that the remainder belonged to Allah. Shettar insisted that a task force should be established to conduct thorough research on this matter, highlighting the potential consequences of these actions on farmers’ rights.

He also challenged the Chief Minister’s assertion that all notices had been withdrawn, stating, If this issue is not addressed, 14,000 acres of farmers’ land will be annexed to Waqf. In response to comments made by Minister Jameer Ahmed regarding the BJP’s alleged dispute over Waqf issues, Shettar urged Jameer to refrain from making irresponsible statements and to take corrective measures with local officials.

The BJP, according to Shettar, is committed to addressing and amending any unjust Waqf claims affecting farmers.