Waqf Act Repeal Bill Introduced in Rajya Sabha Amid Opposition Protests

A private member bill seeking to repeal the Waqf Act, 1995, was introduced in Rajya Sabha on Thursday, December 8, 2022, amid strong protests by opposition parties.

In a controversial move, a private member bill seeking to repeal the Waqf Act, 1995, was introduced in the Rajya Sabha on December 8th, 2022, by BJP MP Harnath Singh Yadav. The Waqf Repeal Bill 2022 faced strong opposition from various opposition parties, leading to a division of votes before its introduction.

Opposition Parties Voice Concerns

Several members from parties such as the Congress, TMC, DMK, CPI, CPI M, and RJD vehemently opposed the bill. Elamaram Kareem of CPI M expressed concerns that the Waqf Board manages numerous religious places and orphanages across the country, and touching upon such a sensitive issue could create communal divisions among the people. He urged the bill's rejection.

John Brittas, another CPI M member, criticized the bill's intention, stating that it aimed to create animosity and polarization among different sections of society. He emphasized that such actions go against the principles of the Constitution and should not be indulged in by members of the ruling party.

Similar Sentiments Echoed by Other Members

Sandosh Kumar P CPI, Tiruchi Siva DMK, V Sivadasan CPI-M, Jawhar Sircar TMC, Syed Naseer Hussain Congress, Fauzia Khan NCP, Mahua Maji JMM, and Manoj Kumar Jha RJD all expressed strong reservations about the bill.

Chair Restricts Participation

Notably, the Chair did not allow Rakesh Sinha, a nominated member, to speak during the discussion, as only those opposing the bill were permitted to present their viewpoints.

The introduction of the Waqf Repeal Bill 2022 has sparked significant controversy and raised concerns among opposition parties. The bill's future remains uncertain as it awaits further discussion and debate in the Rajya Sabha.