New Delhi [India]: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has defended the Waqf Amendment Bill, stating that it is being introduced “in the interest of the country.” The bill, set to be tabled in the Lok Sabha today, has sparked intense political debate, with the BJP-led NDA supporting it, while the INDIA bloc opposes it.
Key Points from Kiren Rijiju’s Statement:
- The bill is for the benefit of the country, not just Muslims.
- Opposition to the bill is politically motivated, not based on logic.
- The government has thoroughly prepared for the bill’s introduction.
Political Stance on the Bill:
✅ Supporters of the Bill:
- Jayant Chaudhary (RLD President, NDA ally): “We are with NDA. We’ve issued a whip.”
- Union Minister George Kurian: Claims poor and middle-class Muslims support the bill, and only big landlords oppose it.
- Uttar Pradesh Minister OP Rajbhar: Accused opposition parties (SP, BSP, Congress) of “vote bank politics”.
❌ Opposition to the Bill:
- Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi staged a black-attire protest outside Parliament.
- INDIA bloc MPs have vowed to oppose the bill both inside and outside Parliament.
What’s Next?
- Both BJP and Congress have issued whips to ensure their MPs are present in the House.
- The bill is expected to pass or fail based on majority numbers, as no bipartisan consensus has been reached.