Haveri
Property disputes involving Waqf land are escalating in Haveri district, particularly affecting Shiggaon and Savanur taluks. Members of the Congress party are increasingly worried about the potential impact on the Shiggaon bypoll following recent Waqf-related issues.
Tensions have risen among the Hindu community due to misinformation circulating on social media. The disputes center around the Waqf Board’s claims over various properties, including Hindu burial grounds, temples, the District Court complex, and private lands. Although Muslims make up a significant portion of voters in Shiggaon, 80% of the Muslim population has been affected by the ongoing Waqf controversy.
Support for the Congress party has weakened since Waqf Minister BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan’s campaign visit to Shiggaon. Residents across the constituency are re-examining their property documents and discussing the Waqf issue. Party leaders fear that the controversy could hurt their election chances.
According to the Waqf Board’s list, over 80% of private property holders in Shiggaon and Savanur are from the Muslim community, with non-Muslims making up the rest.
Community members like Kalandar Jangli, Hazaresab Mishrikote, Maqbool Doddamani, and Ismailsab Doddamani from Bankapur have expressed disappointment with Congress, claiming the Waqf Board, under CM Siddaramaiah’s influence, is seeking to acquire lands they have farmed for generations. “We will teach the ruling party a lesson for taking minority votes for granted,” they said.
Munaf Khadar noted that the issue could harm the party’s chances in the byelection, as many small farmers, including traditional Muslim voters, are disillusioned.
