Leading Muslim JD-U Figure Critiques Nitish Kumar Over Waqf Legislation
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Synopsis
Gulam Rasool Balyawi, a senior Janata Dal (United) leader, criticizes Bihar CM Nitish Kumar for endorsing the Waqf (Amendment) Act, referring to it as a significant misjudgment. He calls for the law's repeal and hints at a potential break from the party amidst rising dissent within JD-U.
Key Takeaways
- Gulam Rasool Balyawi criticizes CM Nitish Kumar.
- Waqf (Amendment) Act seen as a threat to rights.
- Calls for government to repeal the legislation.
- Over 20 JD-U leaders resign in protest.
- Balyawi reconsiders his role in the party.
Patna April 10 (NationPress) Gulam Rasool Balyawi, a leading figure and notable Muslim representative of the Janata Dal (United), has openly criticized Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for endorsing the Waqf (Amendment) Act, labeling it a "serious misjudgment."
Addressing the press following an Irada-E-Saria meeting in Patna on Thursday, Balyawi stated: "Nitish Kumar has accomplished numerous initiatives for the Muslim community — from securing thousands of graveyards to establishing a magnificent Anjuman Islamia Hall under the Waqf Board. However, this time he has erred, and others are capitalizing on this mistake."
He stressed that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which has now been enacted with the backing of JD-U in both Houses of Parliament, is perceived by many in the Muslim community as a threat to their constitutional rights and religious freedom.
"Any legislation that undermines our constitutional and religious rights will face opposition. We urge the government to issue an ordinance to repeal this Bill," he remarked.
Balyawi also suggested that he might seek judicial intervention through religious organizations to obtain justice regarding this issue.
In a noteworthy political turn, Balyawi disclosed that he is re-evaluating his ties with the JD-U: "I remain a member of the party, but I will announce my final decision and stance publicly in the coming days."
The party's endorsement of the Act has already incited dissent, as over 20 JD-U leaders in various positions have resigned in protest.
The Muslim community is irate with Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, widely known as Lalan Singh, who articulated the party's position in the Lok Sabha.
This public fallout heightens the political tensions in Bihar, especially as parties prepare for significant electoral challenges and navigate community sentiments following the legislation.
Meanwhile, JD-U leaders asserted that the Waqf (Amendment) Act will not adversely affect the ordinary Muslim population of the state and the nation.
