Bagalkot Muslim Group Stages Dharna Against Waqf Minister's Planned Visit
Members of the Anjuman E Islam Bagalkot staged a dharna on Saturday, strongly demanding that Waqf minister BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan refrain from visiting Bagalkot for the upcoming by-election campaign. The protestors voiced serious allegations of bias and neglect in the handling of their institutional proposals.
Allegations of Delayed Approvals and Favoritism
The group, which runs educational institutions under the Anjuman E Islam Bagalkot, claimed that they submitted a proposal to the Karnataka Wakf Board in Bengaluru nine months ago, following a change in their presidency. Despite repeated efforts, including two meetings by the late MLA HY Meti with minister Ahmed Khan, the approval was delayed for the entire period. In stark contrast, they alleged that a similar proposal from the Anjuman E Islam of Mudhol was approved within just 15 days, pointing to what they perceive as clear favoritism.
Accusations of Community Division and Political Interference
Beyond the procedural delays, the protestors accused minister Ahmed Khan of dividing the Muslim community in the district, exacerbating tensions ahead of the by-poll. They have formally communicated their stance to district minister RB Timmapur and AICC secretary Gopinath Palaniswami, urging them not to invite Ahmed Khan for the campaign. The group issued a stern warning that if the minister proceeds with his visit, they will launch a protest against it.
Demand for Transparency and Fair Treatment
Emphasizing their frustration, the members argued that if their proposal was deemed illegal or invalid, it should have been promptly returned rather than left pending. This lack of response, they claim, reflects broader issues of transparency and equitable treatment within the Waqf administration. The dharna highlights growing discontent among local Muslim groups over perceived political interference and administrative inefficiencies, potentially impacting the by-election dynamics in Bagalkot.
