JD-U Leader Mohammad Kasim Ansari Resigns in Protest Against Waqf Bill

Synopsis
Mohammad Kasim Ansari, a senior JD-U leader, has resigned from the party in protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. His resignation highlights growing discontent among party members, especially within the Muslim community, regarding the party's support for the legislation.
Key Takeaways
- Ansari resigns from JD-U over Waqf Bill.
- His resignation reflects discontent among Muslim leaders.
- The Bill is seen as anti-Muslim by many.
- Growing internal divisions within JD-U.
- Gulam Gaus hints at dissatisfaction with party stance.
Patna, April 3 (NationPress) The Waqf (Amendment) Bill has ignited a political storm in Bihar, as Mohammad Kasim Ansari, a prominent JD-U leader and candidate from the Dhaka assembly constituency in East Champaran district, has officially resigned from the party in protest.
In a resignation letter directed to JD-U's national president and Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Ansari conveyed profound disappointment regarding the party's endorsement of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in Parliament.
“Numerous individuals in the Muslim community, including myself, regarded Nitish Kumar as a champion of secularism; however, that perception has now been shattered,” stated Ansari.
He further articulated, "The manner in which JD-U supported the Waqf (Amendment) Bill has caused significant distress among Indian Muslims and party members like myself."
Ansari was especially taken aback and saddened by the address delivered by Union Minister Lalan Singh in favor of the Bill.
He remarked, “The Muslim community is profoundly disappointed by Lalan Singh's support for the Bill in the Lok Sabha. This legislation is anti-Muslim and infringes upon fundamental rights.”
Ansari asserted that Muslims are being belittled and disrespected due to this Bill.
He indicated that the legislation poses a particular threat to Pasmanda Muslims, yet JD-U fails to acknowledge this reality.
Reflecting on his long-standing association with JD-U, he expressed, “I dedicated many years of my life to this party, and now I genuinely regret it.”
He has officially resigned from all roles, including primary membership, and has sent copies of his resignation to JD-U State President Umesh Kushwaha and JD-U District President Manju Kushwaha from East Champaran.
Regarding the Waqf Amendment Bill, more JD-U leaders seem to be distancing themselves.
Gulam Gaus, an experienced JD-U leader, appears to be dissatisfied with the party's position.
On Eid-ul-Fitr, he met with RJD national president Lalu Prasad Yadav to discuss the Waqf Bill, hinting at a possible change in his political allegiance.
Ansari's resignation, along with Gaus's discussion with Lalu, indicates growing internal divisions within JD-U, particularly among its Muslim leaders and workers.