Waqf amendment bill unconstitutional, we will challenge it in court: Dinesh Gundu Rao

Mangaluru: Karnataka Minister for Food and Civil Supplies and Dakshina Kannada District In-charge, Dinesh Gundu Rao, has strongly opposed the central government’s newly approved Waqf Amendment Bill, calling it unconstitutional and an act of authoritarianism.

Speaking to the media in Mangaluru on Saturday, Gundu Rao stated, “The central government has bulldozed its way through the Waqf issue without consulting anyone… This bill violates constitutional principles.”

Highlighting the sensitive nature of the issue, he emphasized that creating division in the name of religion is not acceptable. “Even Hindu religious trusts that own land in the state come under state jurisdiction. Likewise, Waqf properties are also under State purview. This kind of central intervention reeks of corruption and political bias,” he alleged.

Addressing queries about the Justice D’Cunha report on COVID-related misappropriations, Gundu Rao said that discussions are ongoing within the sub-committee and that department-level inquiries have been ordered. “Once the investigations are complete, a clearer picture will emerge. The matter has also been referred to the Special Investigation Team (SIT), and show-cause notices have been issued within the Health Department,” he added.

Reacting to the reported suicide of BJP worker Vinay in Madikeri, the minister said, “I don’t have the full details yet. Once I’m fully briefed, I will respond. But any such matter must proceed as per the law. The government cannot interfere arbitrarily. These are sensitive issues and can’t be addressed with blanket statements.”