Synopsis
The AIMPLB has initiated a nationwide protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 in Patna, gaining significant support from political leaders and community organizations. The protest highlights concerns about the potential implications for Waqf properties and minority rights.Key Takeaways
- AIMPLB protests against Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024.
- Political leaders including Lalu Prasad join the movement.
- Accusations of communal motives behind the bill.
- Call for unity among political factions in Bihar.
- Potential impact on Bihar Assembly elections in 2025.
Patna, March 26 (NationPress) The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) commenced a nationwide demonstration against the contentious Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 from Gardanibagh Dharna Sthal in Patna. RJD leader Lalu Prasad and former Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav participated in the protest.
Muslim organizations and community leaders have urged all political factions in Bihar to stand against the bill.
With Lalu and his party members actively engaged, the protest has gained considerable momentum.
AIMPLB spokesperson Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas accused the central government of advancing the bill with “communal intentions.”
“This bill is an attempt to seize Waqf properties. It is designed to mislead and capture the assets of the minority community. AIMPLB is not playing politics; we are defending the rights of the community,” he stated.
The spokesperson called on political leaders promoting secularism to adopt a decisive stance against the bill.
The protest coincided with a tumultuous day in the Bihar Legislative Assembly, where opposition parties chanted slogans demanding a resolution against the Waqf Amendment Bill.
CPI-ML MLA Mehboob Alam strongly condemned the central government, claiming it is trying to “snatch the rights” of Waqf properties.
“We want the Bihar government to pass a resolution unanimously against the bill during this Budget session and convey it to the Centre. If they fail to do so, we will continue our protest and not let the House proceedings run smoothly,” Alam asserted.
All eyes are on Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who has upheld a secular image despite his alliances. The minority community is hopeful he will either join the movement or at least voice opposition to the bill.
Political analysts suggest CM Nitish’s position on this matter could significantly influence the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, where minority votes may be pivotal.
Lalu, a prominent critic of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, reiterated his backing for the minority community.
He was accompanied by maulanas and ulemas from across the nation who gathered at the protest site to express their dissent.
The opposition has also accused the ruling party of “diverting” attention from pressing state concerns by prioritizing the “controversial” bill.
As the Budget session of the Bihar Assembly progresses, protests inside and outside the House are anticipated to escalate.
The minority community and opposition leaders have pledged to continue the movement until the central government reevaluates the Waqf (Amendment) Bill.
