Jharkhand Poll Rally | Amit Shah Accuses Waqf Board Of Land Grabbing, Vows To Amend Act

In a strong address during a poll rally in Jharkhand's Baghmara, Union Home Minister Amit Shah made scathing remarks about the Waqf Board, accusing it of land grabbing and asserting the need for changes in the body. Shah further emphasised that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was committed to amending the Waqf Act, despite opposition from political rivals.

Shah alleged that the Waqf Board had been responsible for illegally acquiring land in various states, including Karnataka. He cited cases of land parcels being seized from farmers, temples, and villagers. "The Waqf Board has a history of grabbing land," Shah said, adding that it was time to bring about reforms to stop such practices. "Tell me, do we need to make changes to the Waqf Board or not?" he challenged the audience.

The home minister also took aim at Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for opposing amendments to the Waqf Act. "Hemant Babu and Rahul Gandhi say no. Let them oppose it; the BJP will pass the Bill to amend the Waqf Act. No one can stop us," Shah declared.

Shah's rally also saw him reiterate his firm stance on the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). He stated that the UCC was essential to combat illegal immigration, vowing that its introduction would not affect the tribal communities in the state. "No one can stop the UCC aimed at preventing infiltration in Jharkhand, and tribals will be kept out of its ambit," Shah assured the crowd.

The BJP leader further criticised the ruling Hemant Soren government, accusing it of fostering a vote bank of illegal immigrants. He promised that, should the BJP come to power in Jharkhand, the party would expel illegal immigrants, claiming that "trainloads of illegal immigrants will be sent to Bangladesh."

Looking ahead to the upcoming elections, Shah assured voters that the BJP would work towards transforming Jharkhand into one of the most prosperous states in India. He outlined plans to establish mineral-based industries, create jobs, and halt migration to other states. "Each paisa looted by JMM-Congress leaders will be returned to its treasury," he vowed, committing to economic reforms that would benefit the people of Jharkhand.

The state of Jharkhand will hold elections for its 81-member assembly in two phases, on November 13 and 20, with the results to be declared on November 23.