Fresh Waqf Land Verification Sparks Anxiety Among 650+ Landowners in Karnataka's Gokak
A fresh controversy has erupted in Gokak taluk of Karnataka's Belagavi district after more than 650 landowners received notices from the revenue department. The notices seek detailed property information as part of a Waqf-related verification exercise covering approximately 2,223 acres of land.
Notices Issued Across Multiple Localities
The notices, issued by the office of the Gokak tahsildar, pertain to multiple survey numbers in various areas. These include Maratha Galli and Ambiger Galli in Gokak town, along with nearby localities such as Shingalapur, Prabha Nagar, and Takke. Landowners have been instructed to furnish comprehensive ownership proof and transaction records dating back to the time of purchase.
This move has triggered significant anxiety among residents, particularly in view of the region's rising land prices. Several landowners have cited what they describe as "harassment," alleging repeated scrutiny despite past verification exercises.
Official Confirmation and Historical Context
Confirming the development, Gokak tahsildar Mohan Bhasme stated that the initiative follows directives from higher authorities. This action came after the Karnataka State Board of Auqaf sought verification of properties in specific survey numbers.
"Given the large number of properties, with more than 650 landholders, we have sought additional time to complete verification using historical land records. The process is currently under way," Bhasme explained.
Residents Express Distress and Confusion
Residents, however, have expressed considerable distress over the sudden issuance of these notices. Kempanna Kadakol, a resident of Prabha Nagar, shared that his family purchased a small plot over a decade ago and built a house there. They were taken completely by surprise by the notice.
"We have no clarity about past records. The notice has caused panic in our family," Kadakol stated emotionally.
Villagers from Shingalapur recalled a similar verification exercise conducted in 2012. That initiative followed recommendations of the Anwar Manippady Commission, during which landowners had to submit documents for verification.
"We had already complied then. Repeating the process now feels unnecessary and troubling," they collectively expressed.
Broader Legal and Administrative Background
Offering a broader context, Shabbirahmed Jamadar, a senior member of the District Waqf Advisory Committee in Chikodi, provided historical insights. He noted that the land in question was originally recorded as Waqf property back in 1968.
Subsequent legal challenges saw courts, including the High Court of Karnataka and the Supreme Court, rule in favor of farmers. Since the top court referred the matter to the Waqf Law Committee, it has been pending resolution since 1994.
Recent Developments Triggering Current Verification
Jamadar explained that the matter has resurfaced following two key developments:
- Amendments to the Waqf Act in April 2025
- The launch of the UMEED portal by the Union Minority Affairs Ministry for digitized verification and monitoring of Waqf properties
A request for verification was reportedly raised on the UMEED portal by Hasansab Peerzade of the Jalal Bhukhari Trust, which directly triggered the current issue.
Landowners Question Legitimacy and Seek Clarity
Some landowners have questioned the legitimacy of the complaint that initiated this process. They allege potential misuse of legal provisions and concealment of earlier court rulings that favored their ownership claims.
With verification currently under way, officials have sought cooperation from all stakeholders. Meanwhile, residents continue to seek clarity and relief from what they describe as recurring uncertainty over land ownership in the region.
The situation remains fluid as both authorities and landowners navigate this complex verification process amidst historical legal disputes and contemporary administrative changes.
