India's Political Tug-of-War: Tamil Nadu Opposes Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024

The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly passed a resolution against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, sparking controversy with BJP leaders dismissing it as a publicity stunt, insisting discussions should occur in Parliament. The Bill, intending to improve Waqf property management, faces criticism over minority rights concerns.

The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly has ignited a political controversy by passing a resolution against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024. The move prompted BJP MP Jagadish Shettar to deem it a publicity maneuver, arguing that the true battleground for the Bill is Parliament, where substantive debates should occur.

Former Karnataka CM and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai echoed this sentiment, attributing the opposition to political motivations. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin spearheaded the resolution, arguing that the Bill undermines state rights and minority protections, a stance supported by key political allies.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, which aims to overhaul the management of Waqf properties through reforms like digitisation and improved transparency, has faced fierce criticism. Concerns over its impact on minority communities have been voiced, calling for the reconsideration of the proposed amendments by a Joint Parliamentary Committee.

(With inputs from agencies.)