K'taka seeks time from SC to solve Hubli Idgah issue

The state government will submit an affidavit to the Supreme Court seeking one month time to settle the controversial Hubli Idgah Maidan (grounds) issue in an amicable manner.

The move to seek time from the Supreme Court comes in the wake of demand from Muslim leaders for a wider discussion on the Idgah Maidan ownership issue.

The ownership issue is before the Apex Court, which has recommended conversion of the Idgah Maidan into a park apart from permitting Muslims to offer prayers on the Maidan twice a year. The court has asked the state government to submit its opinion in this regard by April 5.

"The government will submit an affidavit to the Supreme Court tomorrow seeking one month's time to settle the matter on the lines of the court's recommendation. We want to convince all the affected parties," deputy chief minister B S Yediyurappa told the Legislative Assembly on Tuesday.

The Idgah Maidan, belonging to the Hubli-Dharwad City Corporation (HDMC), measures 1.12 acres. The HDMC had permitted the Anjuman-E-Islam to use the Maidan for prayers.

In 1970, when the Anjuman-E-Islam sought to build a commercial complex on the Maidan, a dispute arose. Local leaders questioned the matter in courts at various levels. Now the matter is pending in the Supreme Court.

It may be recalled that five people were killed in police firing when Hindu organisations led by former BJP leader Uma Bharti attempted to hoist the national flag in August 1994 on the Maidan.