Manoj Jha Criticizes Central Government Over Waqf Act, Commits to Ongoing Legal and Public Protests

Synopsis
On April 18 in Patna, RJD's Manoj Jha condemned the Waqf Amendment Bill, asserting that the party will persist in legal and public protests to safeguard minority rights. Jha emphasized that the fight transcends religious boundaries, advocating for collaboration in democracy.
Key Takeaways
- RJD strongly opposes the Waqf Amendment Bill.
- Manoj Jha emphasizes the fight for India's identity.
- Next Supreme Court hearing scheduled for May 5.
- RJD advocates for all communities, not just Muslims.
- Continued protests planned in a Gandhian manner.
Patna, April 18 (NationPress) Even after the Waqf Amendment Bill was approved by Parliament and enacted into law, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) remains strongly opposed, positioning itself as a champion for minority rights.
On Friday, RJD Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha reaffirmed the party's dedication to contesting the legislation in both the Supreme Court and through public protests.
"This is not merely a struggle for Muslims. This is a battle for India's identity," Jha stated while speaking to the press in Patna.
"RJD was the first political party to approach the Supreme Court against the Waqf Act. Our petition was among the ten submitted," he further noted.
Jha emphasized that party leader Lalu Prasad Yadav, despite his health issues and treatment at AIIMS Delhi, was staying updated on parliamentary developments concerning the Bill.
"I extend my gratitude to both Lalu Prasad Yadav and Tejashwi Yadav for their strong and clear opposition to this Bill. I also thank the people of Bihar for their support against it," he remarked.
He mentioned that the next Supreme Court hearing on this issue is set for May 5, stressing that previous amendments to the Waqf Act were approached with greater care and consideration.
"This amendment process was rushed. Such significant laws should not be altered in this manner," Jha stated.
"Our fight regarding the Waqf issue will persist. RJD stands for every community, whether they are Muslims, Christians, or Hindus," he declared.
Jha also directed comments at Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, questioning whether he was even aware of the Bill's passage.
"We will persist in our protests in a Gandhian manner—through court proceedings, on the streets, and via democratic avenues," he asserted.
Jha criticized the Central government, stating, "Do not fracture the essence of the nation by engaging in communal politics. Holding a majority in the House does not grant you the authority to overshadow dissent. Democracy is about collaboration, not oppression."
Regarding the ongoing land survey in Bihar, he voiced concerns about the process, highlighting that many individuals lack proper documentation and could face unwarranted difficulties.