Title: AIMIM’s Waqf protest nothing but a political gimmick: BJP
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has launched a scathing attack on the Asaduddin Owaisi-led All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) party, calling its recent “switch off lights” protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Act a “nothing but a political gimmick”. The protest, which was held in various parts of the country, was aimed at demonstrating opposition to the newly amended law, which has been passed in Parliament and is now part of the Constitution.
BJP spokesperson NV Subash made the remarks while addressing a press conference on Thursday, saying that AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi knows that the Bill has been passed and is now a part of the Constitution, but he is still trying to mislead Muslims to gain political mileage.
“What is the purpose of this protest? Is it to change the Constitution? The answer is no. This is nothing but a political gimmick. AIMIM chief knows this Bill has been passed in Parliament and is now part of the Constitution. Still, he wants to mislead Muslims so that he will get some political mileage,” Subash said.
The Waqf (Amendment) Act was passed by Parliament in September this year, and it aims to increase the transparency and accountability in the management of Waqf properties. The new law also provides for the constitution of a Waqf Board at the district level, which will oversee the administration of Waqf properties in the respective districts.
However, AIMIM has been opposing the Bill, claiming that it is an attempt by the BJP-led government to hand over Waqf properties to private individuals and institutions. The party has also accused the government of trying to undermine the autonomy of the Waqf Board.
Subash’s comments have sparked a heated debate on social media, with many taking to Twitter to express their opinions on the matter. While some have supported the AIMIM’s stance, others have criticized the party for trying to create unnecessary controversy.
One of the key concerns raised by AIMIM is the provision in the Bill that allows the government to appoint members to the Waqf Board. The party has claimed that this provision will allow the government to control the administration of Waqf properties and undermine the autonomy of the Waqf Board.
However, the government has clarified that the provision is aimed at ensuring that the Waqf Board is representative of all sections of society, including minority communities. The government has also assured that the autonomy of the Waqf Board will not be compromised, and that the Board will continue to function independently.
Despite the government’s assurances, AIMIM has continued to protest against the Bill, with its leaders calling for its repeal. The party has also accused the government of trying to divide the Muslim community by introducing the Bill.
The controversy surrounding the Waqf (Amendment) Act has also raised questions about the role of political parties in shaping the narrative around important issues. While parties have the right to express their opinions and oppose legislation they disagree with, some have argued that AIMIM’s opposition to the Bill is more about gaining political mileage than about genuinely representing the interests of the Muslim community.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the Waqf (Amendment) Act has highlighted the complex and sensitive nature of issues related to religious minorities in India. While AIMIM’s protest against the Bill may have sparked controversy, it has also raised important questions about the role of political parties in shaping the narrative around important issues.
As the debate continues, it is essential for all parties involved to engage in a constructive and respectful dialogue. The government must ensure that the autonomy of the Waqf Board is protected, and that the administration of Waqf properties is transparent and accountable. AIMIM and other political parties must also recognize the importance of engaging in a respectful and constructive dialogue, rather than resorting to divisive rhetoric and political gimmicks.
News Source:
https://x.com/ANI/status/1917879069137604634
