Akhilesh Yadav Needs to Review Our Findings: Pal Critiques SP Leader's Opposition to Waqf Bill

Synopsis
The debate over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill intensified as Akhilesh Yadav criticized the BJP's involvement, leading Jagdambika Pal to challenge his views and defend the Bill's intentions. Pal encouraged a thorough reading of the JPC report to clarify misconceptions about the amendments.
Key Takeaways
- Akhilesh Yadav opposes the Waqf Bill, accusing BJP of interference.
- Jagdambika Pal invites Yadav to review the JPC's 428-page report.
- Pal emphasizes that the amendments do not harm vulnerable groups.
- Criticism of AIMPLB for politicizing religious sentiments.
- Pal highlights PM Modi's positive gestures during Eid.
New Delhi, April 1 (NationPress) The dispute surrounding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill intensified on Tuesday as Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav vehemently rejected the proposal, accusing the BJP of trying to interfere in all matters for the sake of dominance. In reaction, Jagdambika Pal, the Chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) overseeing the Bill, refuted Yadav’s assertions, urging him to identify any negative impacts stemming from the amendments.
Addressing the media, Yadav stated, “Our stance against the Waqf Board Bill is firm because the BJP seeks to meddle in all affairs. They desire control everywhere.”
He also cast doubt on the endorsement of the Bill by the Ajmer Dargah, insinuating that the BJP was manipulating the situation. “The BJP has the ability to make anyone say or do anything, that’s their skill,” Yadav remarked.
In response to these accusations, Pal urged Yadav to examine the comprehensive report from the JPC.
In an interview with IANS, Pal stated, “Akhilesh Yadav should take the time to read our report, which spans 428 pages and includes 14 amendments. Which specific clause or amendment in the Bill harms the underprivileged, the average Muslim, women, or children? If there is any damage, he should highlight it.”
Pal further stressed that the government is ready to advance the Bill shortly, as the Business Advisory Committee is slated to determine the agenda within the next four days.
Pal also criticized the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) for allegedly politicizing the matter.
“The manner in which the AIMPLB incited individuals to wear black arm bands is political rather than religious. Monday was a sacred time during Ramadan, yet mosques were transformed into political arenas,” he noted.
He questioned the involvement of parties like AIMIM, DMK, BSP, and others, claiming they were exploiting the issue for electoral gains.
“PM Modi’s gesture during Eid was welcomed by numerous Muslims, but this time politics is being played in the context of the Bill. This is the first instance where mosques are being misused by the AIMPLB for political ends,” Pal said.
He also mentioned AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi, who is a committee member and was seen wearing black armbands on the instructions of the AIMPLB.
“If an individual is visiting a mosque to pray to Allah, it is inappropriate to wear a black band. I believe the AIMPLB has misled the Muslim population in our nation. Nonetheless, I commend the Muslim community for observing Eid harmoniously across the country in the spirit of 'Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb.' While many leaders have endorsed the Bill, there are still those who oppose it,” Pal concluded.