Channapatna/Ramanagara, November 5: Former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy has intensified his criticism of the Congress-led Karnataka government, alleging that it is dividing citizens along religious and caste lines amid an ongoing dispute over Waqf properties. Kumaraswamy, currently campaigning in Channapatna, called upon the ruling Congress to issue a public apology and rectify its approach to the contentious Waqf property issue.
Speaking to the media in Doddahalli, Kumaraswamy questioned Congress’s motives: “How long will you continue to deceive people? Are you favoring one community while neglecting another? Apologize to the people and rectify the mistakes, or the day is not far when people will enter your homes.” He also referenced a recent controversial remark by a Congress MLC, suggesting that public patience was wearing thin, particularly among Karnataka’s farming community.
Kumaraswamy refuted claims that any decisions regarding Waqf properties had crossed his desk during his term as Chief Minister. “No Waqf-related files or decisions concerning farmers’ land, temple land, or Ramanagara hills were presented to me. Statements by CM Siddaramaiah on this matter are baseless,” he asserted. He further challenged Siddaramaiah to bring any evidence of his involvement before the public, criticizing the CM’s claims as attempts to shift blame.
Highlighting past Congress leadership’s role, Kumaraswamy argued that any Waqf-related issues during his term were the responsibility of the Congress ministers in charge at the time. “Back then, Krishna Byre Gowda was the Revenue Minister, and the current Waqf Minister held the same portfolio. If any actions occurred without my knowledge, they are unrelated to me,” he clarified, reaffirming that he would not evade accountability.
Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah responded by stating he had instructed officials to halt any notices previously issued to farmers regarding Waqf property occupancy, reversing actions taken during the previous BJP government.
Kumaraswamy ended by warning Congress of potential political consequences due to its divisive tactics, citing Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge’s own concerns. “Congress will ultimately self-destruct through its actions,” he cautioned.
