Waqf Board Bill Sparks Heated Debate in Lok Sabha

The Lok Sabha witnessed intense opposition as the Waqf Board Bill was introduced by Minority Welfare Minister Kiren Rijiju. The bill, which proposes to include non-Muslim individuals and Muslim women in central and state Waqf bodies, has faced significant backlash from various quarters.

Opposition leaders have raised strong objections to the bill. Samajwadi Party MP Mohibullah criticized the amendment as an infringement on religious autonomy, arguing that it represents undue interference in Muslim affairs. Similarly, AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi condemned the bill as an attack on religious freedom, questioning why non-Hindus are not included in Hindu temple committees but are being considered for Waqf bodies. Owaisi argued that the bill is discriminatory and aims to undermine Muslim institutions.

Congress MP KC Venugopal also voiced concerns, labeling the bill a violation of constitutional rights. He highlighted the disparity between representation in religious institutions, citing the absence of non-Hindus in temple committees and questioning the rationale behind including them in Waqf bodies.

In contrast, JDU leader and Union Minister Lallan Singh defended the bill, emphasizing its goal of increasing transparency and reducing autocratic control within institutions. Singh rejected claims of anti-Muslim bias and argued that the bill aligns with principles of transparency and accountability. DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi echoed similar concerns about the bill’s constitutionality, asserting that it targets a specific religious group and undermines the principle of equality.

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav accused the government of using the bill for political gains and warned that it could have long-term repercussions. Union Home Minister Amit Shah countered Yadav’s claims, urging him to provide more specific criticisms rather than vague statements. The debate over the Waqf Board Bill continues, reflecting deep divisions over its implications for religious institutions and minority rights in India.

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