Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 29: Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora has criticized Opposition parties for allegedly misleading the Muslim community regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, urging them to trust the government in implementing reforms that would benefit them and their future generations.
Deora’s Appeal to the Muslim Community
Deora emphasized that certain elements deliberately spread misinformation whenever issues concerning specific communities arise.
“We have to understand that whenever an issue relates to a particular community, there are people who try to mislead them into thinking that the government is acting against them,” Deora stated.
He urged the Muslim community to avoid being used as a vote bank, adding:
“I wish my Muslim brothers and sisters Eid in advance, and I urge them not to fall into the trap of those who seek to exploit them for political gains. Instead, they should trust the government and support reforms that will ultimately benefit them and their children.”
Nationwide Protest Against Waqf (Amendment) Bill
Deora’s remarks come amid nationwide protests led by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) against the proposed changes to the Waqf Board. The AIMPLB called for a peaceful protest urging people to wear black arm bands in opposition to the bill.
On Friday, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi participated in the symbolic protest by wearing a black arm band while offering namaz in Hyderabad. The protest was observed in several cities, including Lucknow and Hyderabad.
Deora on CAA and Article 370
Milind Deora also cited past instances where, according to him, the Opposition spread false narratives to mislead the Muslim community:
- Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA):
- “When the CAA was introduced, some in the Opposition falsely claimed it would strip Muslims of Indian citizenship. Five years have passed, and not a single Muslim has lost their citizenship due to CAA.”
- Abrogation of Article 370:
- “Opposition leaders claimed removing Article 370 would harm Kashmiri Muslims. But after visiting Kashmir three times post-abrogation, I can say that Kashmiri Muslims are among its biggest beneficiaries.”
Opposition Criticism of the Bill
Apart from AIMIM chief Owaisi, Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) General Secretary and MLC-elect Addanki Dayakar also criticized the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, questioning its impact on the community.
The bill has sparked debate as political leaders and religious groups continue to voice differing perspectives on its implications.