Actor and BJP leader Mithun Chakraborty on Thursday launched a sharp critique against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of misleading the public regarding the recently enacted Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. Speaking to media, Chakraborty emphasized that the Act is crafted in the best interests of the Muslim community, particularly Muslim women, and alleged that political leaders are twisting the narrative for electoral gain.
“She (Mamata Banerjee) is trying to mislead the public. The Waqf Amendment Act is in the best interests of Muslims, especially Muslim women. But some people are misleading the public. This is wrong,” said Chakraborty.
Backing Chakraborty’s sentiments, BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, who chaired the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Bill, condemned what he called state-sponsored protests and appeasement politics by opposition parties. Pal took direct aim at leaders like Tejashwi Yadav, Mamata Banerjee, MK Stalin, and Mehbooba Mufti, accusing them of blocking the law’s implementation for political mileage.
“Tejashwi Yadav is dreaming of becoming the ‘Mungeri Lal’ of Bihar in the 2025 elections. He will never come to power,” said Pal, referencing a fictional character known for unrealistic dreams.
Pal further noted that attempts were made in Jammu and Kashmir to disrupt the Assembly proceedings, with a copy of the Bill being torn in protest, and claimed that in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, state-backed violence broke out during anti-Waqf Act protests.
“No one can stop this law from being implemented across the country. The aim of the Modi government is to create a transparent law that ensures protection of Waqf properties, prevents illegal sale, and directs income toward Pasmanda Muslims and women,” Pal asserted.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, became law on April 5, following Presidential assent. While the BJP claims the law ensures transparency and empowerment, critics argue it facilitates greater government control over religious endowments and is being used to undermine minority institutions.
Opposition leaders and multiple community groups have already approached the Supreme Court, challenging the validity of the Act. A bench headed by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna is scheduled to hear the matter on April 16.
Meanwhile, violent protests, including stone-pelting and vehicle torching, rocked Murshidabad earlier this week, as opposition to the legislation continues to mount in various parts of the country.