Vivek Tankha: Waqf Bill May Not Positively Affect Muslims
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Synopsis
Vivek Tankha, a senior Congress leader, commented on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, suggesting it will not benefit Muslims. He criticized BJP claims of positive change and emphasized the need for unity over divisive legislation. Meanwhile, BJP's Syed Shahnawaz Hussain defended the Bill as empowering for marginalized Muslims.
Key Takeaways
- Vivek Tankha doubts the Waqf Bill's positive impact on Muslims.
- BJP claims of benefit are met with skepticism.
- Bill seen as politically motivated by Tankha.
- Syed Shahnawaz Hussain defends the Bill as pro-Muslim.
- Concerns over social media threats received by Hussain.
Bhopal, April 5 (NationPress) Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Vivek Tankha expressed on Saturday that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, recently approved by both Houses of Parliament, is not expected to yield any beneficial changes for Muslims.
“This legislation will not usher in any positive transformations for Muslims. I was present in the House while BJP MPs delivered extensive speeches regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. Their perspectives left me astonished. It was quite a comical situation,” Tankha remarked to IANS during a social gathering hosted by Congress MLA Arif Masood in Bhopal.
He was addressing BJP MP Alok Sharma’s assertions that the Waqf Bill would instigate progressive changes for Muslims.
Tankha further emphasized that the Waqf Bill is politically driven, claiming that the BJP has introduced it solely for electoral benefits.
“True change arises from unity, not through the enactment of divisive legislation. What advancements occurred after the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir?” the MP questioned.
After an extensive debate, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 was passed in the early hours of Friday.
In the midst of the political uproar surrounding the Bill, BJP National Spokesperson and former Union Minister, Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, has labeled it as a pro-Muslim and pro-poor initiative.
Speaking to IANS in Samastipur, Hussain stated that the Bill, which has been approved by both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, is designed to empower disadvantaged Muslims, particularly those historically marginalized.
“The Waqf Amendment Bill serves the interests of Muslims. It will assist the impoverished among them, offering an opportunity for fresh development,” Hussain asserted.
Hussain also shared that he has faced threats and abusive messages online since advocating for the Bill.
“I am being constantly threatened and insulted on social media. We are identifying these individuals. Nevertheless, I remain steadfast in my beliefs,” he told IANS.
Regarding the political repercussions of the Bill, Hussain dismissed worries about Muslim leaders leaving the JD-U, labeling them as inconsequential figures.
As resentment grows within segments of the Muslim community concerning the Waqf Bill, Union Minister Chirag Paswan responded with a thoughtful statement, reflecting on the legacy of his late father, Ram Vilas Paswan.
“I wish to express my gratitude to every member of the Muslim community for their discontent, but the truth is that my father consistently championed social justice with unwavering commitment,” Paswan expressed.
