Karnataka BJP protests over Waqf land encroachments, slams govt's ‘anti-poor’ policies

NEW DELHI: Karnataka BJP leaders staged a protest on Friday against the state government, highlighting concerns over alleged Waqf Board land encroachments and demanding the removal of the term "Waqf Board" from government records.

The protest was led by Karnataka BJP president BY Vijayendra, who criticized the Congress government’s policies, calling them “anti-poor.”

He specifically condemned a recent 20% hike in medical fees at government hospitals and colleges, accusing the government of attempting to raise resources to fulfill its guarantees.

“Every decision taken by the Karnataka government is anti-poor,” said Vijayendra, adding that the government should withdraw the fee hike. He also questioned the move to cancel 20 lakh Below Poverty Line (BPL) cards, stressing the need for a "scientific approach" before such a decision is made.

BJP leader CT Ravi further targeted the Congress government, claiming that despite having the resources, the government was removing ration cards to save money. He also criticized the party for spending on projects like Congress Bhavan worth Rs. 1,000 crores, while claiming to lack funds for welfare schemes.

The protest, which also saw participation from former minister BC Patil and other BJP leaders, was peaceful but led to the detention of several demonstrators by the police.


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