Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has strongly opposed the proposed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, urging the central government to withdraw it. Moving a resolution in the state assembly on Thursday, he argued that the bill would have a negative impact on minority Muslims.
Speaking in the assembly, Stalin stated, "The Union Government is planning to amend the Waqf Act, which will limit the powers of the Waqf Board. This move is hurting Muslim sentiments, yet the Centre seems indifferent."
He further emphasized India's religious harmony and constitutional rights, stating that all citizens have the freedom to practice their religion. "Elected governments have the responsibility to safeguard these rights. The Tamil Nadu Assembly unanimously calls on the Union Government to withdraw the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024, as it will severely impact the Muslim community," he added.
Stalin's remarks come a day after a heated debate in the Bihar Assembly, where the opposition protested against the proposed amendments. Leaders demanded the bill's withdrawal and called for the complete implementation of the Sachar Committee recommendations, which had highlighted the socio-economic challenges faced by Muslims.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill is yet to be introduced in the Lok Sabha, where it is expected to trigger further clashes between the ruling party and the opposition. While the Cabinet has approved the amendments based on recent parliamentary panel suggestions, several opposition parties remain firmly against the bill.