BJP Supports, Congress Critiques KCBC’s Call for Waqf Bill Endorsement
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Synopsis
The Kerala Catholic Bishops Council (KCBC) has called on Kerala MPs to support the Waqf Amendment Bill, leading to mixed responses from political parties. The BJP endorses the appeal, while Congress questions the need for such involvement.
Key Takeaways
- The KCBC urges MPs to support the Waqf Amendment Bill.
- The BJP asserts Parliament's authority to amend the bill.
- The Congress criticizes the KCBC's call for interference.
- The Munambam Waqf dispute highlights the need for clarity on property claims.
- Union Ministers express support for the KCBC's position.
Mumbai, March 31 (NationPress) The Kerala Catholic Bishops Council (KCBC) has appealed to Members of Parliament (MPs) from Kerala to endorse the Waqf Amendment Bill, eliciting diverse reactions from political factions.
While the BJP welcomed the request, emphasizing that only Parliament holds the power to amend the Bill, the Congress questioned the necessity of such interference.
In an interview with IANS, BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi stated, “Let me clarify — the current Bill was enacted in Parliament, and only Parliament can modify it. It’s not a sacred text that cannot be revised or updated.”
“This is a law established by Parliament, and amendments are integral to the democratic process. Some individuals are fostering confusion, implying that if any errors exist, adjustments will be made. However, the reality is that the nation is progressing with these amendments, and we want to assure everyone that this will not infringe upon anyone’s religious convictions.”
On the other hand, Congress leader Hussain Dalwai criticized the KCBC’s position, asserting, “There’s no need for such interference. MPs will not be influenced by this appeal. Numerous trusts and organizations, predominantly run by Christian communities, exist. It is misguided to assume that the government should meddle in their affairs.”
“Efforts are being made to associate Christian communities with the BJP, but people will not buy into it as the BJP’s current political stance is perceived as antagonistic to them, as well as to Muslims and Dalits.”
The KCBC’s appeal centered on the protracted Munambam Waqf dispute, a legal conflict concerning land that residents claim to have inhabited for generations.
The management of Farook College, which sold the land to Munambam residents, contends that the land was received as a gift. Nonetheless, under the existing Waqf Act, claims can be made against such properties, leading to uncertainty for the residents.
In its statement, the KCBC urged MPs to back amendments to the Waqf Bill, highlighting the urgency to resolve the Munambam issue.
“A resolution to the Munambam issue is necessary. The management of Farook College has maintained that the land was given as a gift. MPs should collaborate to amend the Waqf Bill, which allows claims against such properties,” it stated.
The appeal garnered attention from Union Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, who acknowledged the KCBC’s position on social media, describing it as “a commendable step.”
She underscored the Bishops’ request to amend sections of the Waqf Act that they consider to be “unjust” and “anti-constitutional.”
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also expressed support for the KCBC’s appeal, asserting, “Legislators should address the challenges faced by Munambam residents. This amendment is not directed at any specific community. The government remains dedicated to safeguarding the rights of all citizens.”
