Congress Critiques BJP Over Waqf Bill; Claims Democratic Principles Are Being Eroded

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tariq Anwar condemns BJP's approach to democracy.
- Claims of a majoritarian mindset driving the ruling party.
- Opposition unity praised in voting against the Bill.
- Congress plans to challenge the Bill in the Supreme Court.
- Waqf Board's alleged encroachments discussed.
New Delhi, April 4 (NationPress) Congress MP Tariq Anwar on Friday vehemently condemned the BJP-led administration, alleging that it is eroding democratic values and claiming that the ruling party's actions stem from a majoritarian mentality. His statements were made following the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha after extensive discussions.
In an interview with IANS, Tariq Anwar remarked, “The BJP does not embrace democracy. They operate with a majoritarian attitude, believing that since they hold the majority, they can act without restraint, dismantle anything, and impose their will on everyone.”
“They disregard the Constitution, cultural traditions, and core values. Their primary objective is to polarize votes, incite animosity, and foster distrust among communities. This has been their strategy since 2014, showing no sign of deviation,” he added.
Anwar commended the opposition leaders who opposed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, stressing the solidarity within the INDIA Bloc.
“We applaud and express gratitude to them. The collective stance of the entire INDIA Bloc on this matter was praiseworthy. We are committed to voicing our concerns together on national issues that affect the nation and its citizens,” he stated.
Discussing Congress's next moves post-Bill passage, Anwar said, “With the BJP disregarding arguments and constitutional provisions due to its majority, our only recourse is to seek intervention from the judiciary.”
“The Congress will approach the Supreme Court, and various other entities will likely follow suit. What transpired is not in the nation’s best interest but serves communal interests,” he asserted.
Anwar also addressed recent allegations by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath regarding the Waqf Board’s supposed encroachments on public and historical lands in the state.
“One can make statements without basis, but the public has voiced their concerns. We have the judiciary and Constitution to tackle such matters. If anyone claims our land, they must substantiate it with valid documents. The same applies to the Waqf Board. Disputes can be settled through the judiciary, High Court, or Supreme Court. The previous Bill contained provisions for such disputes, allowing them to be escalated if necessary,” he clarified.
“This Bill represents a clear effort by the BJP to assert its control and undermine the constitutional framework,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, during a gathering in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj on Thursday, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath warned that the Waqf Board's “unjust claims” over public and historical properties would no longer be tolerated.
“Those who are devoted to the nation will always find their way forward,” Adityanath stated, accusing the Waqf Board of behaving like a “land mafia.”
The Rajya Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, early Friday with 128 votes in favor and 95 against after a heated debate. The Lok Sabha had approved the Bill just a day earlier after nearly 12 hours of deliberations.