Hubballi, Nov 7 (Reporter) Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 Chairman Jagdambika Pal on Thursday criticised the Karnataka government for allegedly converting farmers' lands and other properties as Waqf assets. Pal’s remarks came after meeting with delegations of farmers in Hubballi who petitioned over their properties being recorded as Waqf lands. "It would not be possible for such an action to occur without administrative involvement. Land records indicate that properties owned by farmers are marked as Waqf, following state government directions," he asserted. The Chairman underscored the gravity of the issue, noting that a substantial number of petitions — over 70 from farmers and affected parties — were received. Pal claimed that this situation involved lands, temples, and even heritage sites being labelled as Waqf property. "It is alarming that, despite initial notices being withdrawn, farmers’ properties were seized through what appears to be a collaborative effort with government authorities," he stated. Former Karnataka Chief Minister and MP Basavaraj Bommai, along with several BJP leaders, including Union Minister of State for Railways V Somanna, Legislative Council Opposition Leader Chalavadi Narayanswamy, and others, joined Pal to submit petitions. Pal confirmed that the committee would thoroughly review all submissions before preparing an official report on the issue. This situation highlights ongoing tensions over land ownership and raises questions about administrative practices, with affected farmers and opposition leaders calling for swift government intervention...////...