Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met a Muslim delegation on Tuesday evening at his official residence. The meeting was part of the nationwide “Save Waqf, Save Constitution” campaign led by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB).
The delegation included senior religious scholars, community leaders, and activists from Karnataka. They raised concerns over the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, and other issues affecting the Muslim community.
Housing, Minority Welfare, and Waqf Minister B.Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan was present. The CM’s Political Advisor, Naseer Ahmed, also attended.
Key members from the Board’s Karnataka chapter participated. These included Mufti Iftikhar Ahmed Qasmi (President, Jamiat Ulama Karnataka), Maulana Dr. Maqsood Imran Rashadi (Imam, City Jamia Masjid), Dr. Saad Belgami (Ameer, Jamaat-e-Islami Karnataka), Mohibullah Khan Ameen (General Secretary, Jamiat Ulama), Asim Afroz Seth (Board Member), and Maulana Naushad Alam Qasmi (President, Milli Council Karnataka).
The delegation formally invited CM Siddaramaiah to the upcoming “Save Waqf, Save Constitution” Conference in Bengaluru. He accepted and promised full support.
They called the Waqf Act amendments unjust, unconstitutional, and dangerous to Waqf property autonomy. They said such laws cause unrest in the Muslim community and violate minority rights.
The Chief Minister showed empathy and backed their concerns. He assured that his government stands for constitutional values, protection of minorities, and justice.
Other issues were discussed too. These included rising hate by sectarian forces, the need to preserve communal harmony, and the importance of Karnataka’s peaceful traditions.
The delegation asked for 8% reservation for disadvantaged Muslim groups as recommended by the Backward Classes Commission. They also urged for a caste-based census and better delivery of minority schemes.
CM Siddaramaiah promised cooperation. He said all issues would be examined legally and constitutionally. He praised the Board’s peaceful and democratic campaign.
The meeting was seen as a positive step. It helped strengthen dialogue between the government and the Muslim community on key social and constitutional issues.
