Controversy Erupts Over Proposed Waqf Amendment Bill

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has announced agitation against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. BJP leaders accuse the AIMPLB of creating false narratives to mislead the Muslim community. The government insists amendments aim to improve representation and benefit minorities, but AIMPLB calls the bill communally motivated.

The proposed Waqf (Amendment) Bill has ignited significant controversy, with the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) announcing a nationwide agitation against it. In a strong response, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Ramchander Rao accused the AIMPLB and other organizations of spreading a "false narrative" to the Muslim community. He claimed that these groups fear a potential shift in Muslim votes towards the BJP.

Rao further clarified that the government's intention is solely to ensure representation for women and disadvantaged communities within the Waqf Board. "The amendments are meant to include the poor and women from the Muslim community," Rao stated, reiterating that the changes are not about replacing the board but amending certain clauses.

Jagdambika Pal, BJP MP and chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf Bill, accused the AIMPLB of fostering confusion among minorities. Meanwhile, the AIMPLB's Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas criticized the bill, describing it as communally driven and an attempt to seize Waqf property. Protests continue as debates rage on.

(With inputs from agencies.)