Congress MP Imran Masood has strongly opposed the proposed Waqf Amendment Bill 2024, claiming that there is an attempt to undermine religious institutions and texts.
Masood’s Statement on the Bill
Masood, who is a member of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf Amendment Bill, stated that he had thoroughly reviewed the documents and found the proposed amendments unacceptable.
- “We were in the JPC with full preparation. We have seen everything, and we have read everything… There is an attempt to bulldoze our religious institutions and religious texts, which will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” he told media on Sunday.
AIMPLB Announces Nationwide Agitation
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has declared a nationwide protest against the bill.
A statement issued by Mohd Vaquar Uddin Latifi, Office Secretary of AIMPLB, mentioned:
- “Following a massive and successful protest in Delhi on March 17, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has announced a nationwide agitation against the proposed Waqf Amendment Bill.”
Support from Various Groups
SQR Ilyas, spokesperson of AIMPLB and Convener of the Action Committee Against the Waqf Bill, expressed gratitude to all organizations and leaders who opposed the bill.
- “Without the grace of Allah and the united support of these groups, the success of the Delhi demonstration would not have been possible.”
- He also thanked opposition parties and Members of Parliament who participated and strongly rejected the bill.
Planned Protests
The AIMPLB’s 31-member Action Committee has decided to use all constitutional, legal, and democratic means to oppose the bill.
- Large protest sit-ins have been scheduled:
- March 26 in Patna
- March 29 in Vijayawada
The bill continues to face strong opposition from multiple groups, with further protests expected across the country.