– Mohammed Talha Siddi Bapa
Bengaluru: In a powerful show of solidarity, the Karnataka Muslim United Mahaz has officially extended its support to the ongoing farmers’ protest against forced land acquisition in Devanahalli. Convenor Masood Abdul Qadir, leading a high-level delegation to Freedom Park, where farmers have been staging a sit-in, called the struggle “legitimate, democratic, and morally binding on all justice-loving citizens.”
The controversy surrounds 1,777 acres of fertile agricultural land that local farmers claim the government is trying to acquire against their will. Despite assurances during the Karnataka Assembly elections, the Congress-led government recently issued a formal notification initiating land acquisition – triggering widespread anger and protests.
Addressing the gathering of agitating farmers, Masood Abdul Qadir stated, “This land is not just soil – it is livelihood, history, and dignity. When 80 per cent of farmers are opposing the acquisition, the government has no moral or legal right to proceed. Karnataka Muslim United Front stands shoulder to shoulder with you in this just battle.”
He further urged the state government to honour its manifesto promises made to Dalits, minorities, and farmers, reminding the public that “election pledges are not just political tactics but sacred commitments to the people.”
Kisan-Mazdoor-Muslim Solidarity on Display
The day’s event at Freedom Park was a remarkable scene of inter-community unity and resolve. Among those present were key leaders from various farmer movements including Bargalpur’s Nagendra, Basavarajappa, Veer Sankhya, Dalit leader Nagaraj, and Guru Prasad Kerigoud. They were joined by Muslim scholars and community leaders – signifying a growing coalition of marginalized voices.
Muhammad Yusuf Kani, Secretary of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Karnataka and a co-convener of the Mahaz, delivered a strong appeal to the Chief Minister: “If a majority of farmers are opposing this project, what democratic mandate does the government have to confiscate their land? This is not governance – it is coercion. The issue must be resolved immediately with justice.”
Moulana Mufti Muhammad Hussain Qasmi, president of Jamiat Ulama Karnataka (Bengaluru), echoed these sentiments, announcing full support for the farmers’ movement and urging Muslims to actively participate in the upcoming protest rally on July 4.
Growing Mobilisation Ahead of July 4 Mega Rally
The July 4 protest at Freedom Park is expected to be a massive show of strength. Noor Sridhar of Janashakti made a public call for all justice-loving citizens to attend and strengthen the resistance. He said, “We will walk with our Muslim brothers in their struggle against the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025, just as they are walking with us today in defence of our land.”
Dr. Naseem Ahmed, President of Solidarity Youth Movement, Dr. Sanaullah Sharif from Ideal Teachers Association, Ejaz Ahmed (Joint Secretary of the Mahaz), and representatives from Jamiat Ahle Hadith, Khuddamul Muslimeen, and Ahl-e-Sunnat wa Jamaat were also part of the Mahaz delegation.
“Together, We Will Win”: A Message of Hope
Muhammad Yusuf Kani emphasised the shared struggles of farmers and Muslims in protecting their land and identity. “This is not merely a fight for land – it is a fight for justice, self-respect, and democratic rights. When oppressed communities unite, they become an unshakable force.”
The Karnataka Muslim United Front’s participation in the Devanahalli movement not only broadens the support base of the protest but also sends a clear message: land rights are not negotiable, and the promise of justice cannot be delayed any further.
