FIR Against Karnataka Seer Kumara Chandrashekaranatha For Remarks On Muslim Voting Rights

An FIR has been registered against Vishwa Vokkaliga Mahasamastana Math seer, Kumara Chandrashekaranatha Swamiji, following controversial remarks suggesting that Muslims should be stripped of their voting rights.

According to police reports cited by news agency PTI on Friday, the seer proposed enacting a law to revoke voting rights for Muslims.

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The comments were made during a protest organised by the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh on Tuesday, which was in response to notices issued by Karnataka's Waqf Board.

In his address, Kumara Chandrashekaranatha Swamiji called for unity to protect farmers and their lands, while criticising the Waqf Board for allegedly violating "Dharma" by claiming others' property.

What did Kumara Chandrashekaranatha Swami say?

"Everyone should fight against the injustice being caused to farmers... it is said that the Waqf Board can claim anyone's land. It is a big injustice... someone taking away someone else's land is not Dharma... So, everyone should fight to ensure that farmers' land remains with them," the seer stated.

He went on to argue that Muslims should be denied the right to vote.

Apology and FIR

On Wednesday, the seer issued an apology for his statement, describing it as a "slip of the tongue." He clarified, saying, "Muslims are also citizens of the country and, like others, have the right to vote."

Following a complaint filed by a social worker, an FIR was lodged against him at Upparpet police station. Police confirmed, "We have registered a case against him (Swamiji) under section 299 (Deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita."

Developments on the Waqf Amendment Bill

Meanwhile, on Thursday, the Lok Sabha passed a resolution to extend the term of the Joint Committee on the Waqf Amendment Bill until the conclusion of the 2025 Budget Session.

During a committee meeting on Wednesday, its chairman, Jagdambika Pal, revealed that disputes over Waqf property ownership exist in approximately six states. The extension was granted to allow for further deliberations on these issues.