Debate Over Waqf Bill Ignites Tensions in Indian Parliament

New Delhi: The recent introduction of the “Waqf (Amendment) Bill” in the Lok Sabha has triggered intense debate and sharp criticism from opposition parties, who decry the legislation as unconstitutional and discriminatory against Muslims.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the bill has been met with strong opposition from members of Congress, Samajwadi Party, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), Trinamool Congress, and others. These parties argue that the bill violates constitutional guarantees such as Articles 14, 25, and 26, which concern equality before the law and freedom of religion. Critics, including Congress MP K.C. Venugopal, assert that the bill undermines the constitutional framework by potentially allowing non-Muslims to participate in the management of waqf properties, which traditionally are Muslim endowments. Venugopal likened this to an unthinkable scenario where non-Hindus would manage Hindu religious sites, illustrating the sensitivity of the issue.

AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi further charged the bill with being an overt act of aggression against Muslim rights in India, claiming it aims to usurp control of Muslim waqf properties, including mosques and shrines, thereby restricting the community’s ability to manage their religious affairs.

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