Synopsis
Bihar BJP President Dilip Jaiswal has accused West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee of exploiting anti-social elements for political gain during her meeting with Muslim leaders to strategize against the Waqf Act. He urges the public to evaluate the Act for a year before seeking amendments.Key Takeaways
- Dilip Jaiswal criticizes Mamata Banerjee for political manipulation.
- The meeting with Muslim leaders is aimed at opposing the Waqf Act.
- Jaiswal advocates for a one-year evaluation of the Waqf Act.
- The Supreme Court will hear a case on the Act's validity.
- Opposition parties are calling for the Act's repeal.
New Delhi, April 16 (NationPress) Bihar BJP President Dilip Jaiswal has strongly criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her recent meeting with Muslim religious leaders, claiming she is engaging in a political maneuver by enlisting anti-social elements to strengthen her vote bank.
The purpose of the meeting is said to be to devise a strategy against the Waqf Act in West Bengal.
While discussing with IANS, Jaiswal remarked, “This is Mamata Banerjee’s political game. Muslim brothers do not seek to instigate unrest or violence. However, to augment her vote bank, she is aligning with individuals of an anti-social nature.”
Chief Minister Banerjee and her party, the Trinamool Congress, have openly criticized the central government's stance on religious and minority rights, and Wednesday’s meeting is anticipated to finalize a strategy for 'legal and public resistance'.
Additionally, the Supreme Court is set to deliberate on a crucial case concerning the constitutional validity of the Waqf Act; prior to this, Dilip Jaiswal called on the public to allow the Act a year of evaluation.
He indicated that should amendments be deemed necessary after that period, the government would be receptive to changes.
Opposition factions have submitted a petition requesting the repeal of the Act, asserting that it is discriminatory and lacks a sound legal foundation. The outcome of the case could significantly affect religious endowments and community rights nationwide.
Dilip Jaiswal spoke on this matter ahead of the Supreme Court hearing, defending the legislation and encouraging the public to give it time.
“The Waqf Board was established through a democratic process aimed at assisting Pasmanda Muslims and impoverished Muslims, liberating it from long-standing control. A Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) was formed, input was gathered from millions, and extensive discussions occurred in both Houses of Parliament before this law was enacted,” Jaiswal asserted.
He drew a parallel to the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), stating, “I urge the public to evaluate this legislation for one year, similar to what was done with the CAA. During that time, fear was instilled among Muslim brothers nationwide. If, after one year, you feel changes are necessary, we are ready to make amendments.”
