Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced in the Assembly that his government is prepared to establish a committee led by a retired judge to investigate the Waqf property issue. He assured that temples built on Waqf properties will not face eviction, and any notices already issued to them will be withdrawn. Addressing the BJP’s accusations regarding Waqf land encroachments, Siddaramaiah emphasized that the matter is not a prestige issue and that the government has provided detailed explanations. He also highlighted that the BJP, despite being in power at both state and central levels for years, failed to address the issue during their tenure.

The chief minister clarified that Karnataka has nearly 1.28 lakh acres of Waqf land, of which significant portions have been affected by the Inam Cancellation and Land Reforms Act or encroached upon. He reiterated the state’s commitment to protecting Waqf properties as per Supreme Court orders, ensuring that no farmer or temple on such lands would be displaced. He accused the BJP of politicizing the matter, noting their failure to address the issue during their terms in office and alleging that their current stance is an attempt to mislead the public.

Opposition BJP leaders, however, staged a walkout, dissatisfied with the government’s explanation. They alleged that the notices served on temples, farmers, and private individuals caused undue hardship. Waqf and Minority Affairs Minister B.Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan reminded the BJP of its 2014 manifesto promise to clear Waqf land encroachments, underscoring the need for a unified effort to save Waqf properties from further exploitation.