CM Omar Abdullah Understands Protests Against Waqf Bill
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On March 24, CM Omar Abdullah stated that the protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill occurring nationwide are justified, as it targets a specific religion. He emphasized the connection between charitable activities and all religions, noting that singling out one faith causes tension.
Key Takeaways
- Protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill are justified.
- CM Omar Abdullah emphasizes the targeting of a specific religion.
- Charitable activities are linked to all religions.
- A nationwide agitation is organized by the AIMPLB.
- The joint committee has suggested amendments to the Bill.
Jammu, March 24 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, expressed on Monday that the ongoing protests across the nation against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill are quite justifiable.
While addressing the media outside the Legislative Assembly, CM Omar Abdullah remarked that the discontent surrounding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill is understandable as it appears to target a specific religion through this amendment.
He further stated, “Charitable initiatives are associated with all faiths and the Muslim community manages these through Waqf. When a specific religion is singled out, it leads to heightened tensions.”
Furthermore, it is noteworthy that the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) declared a nationwide protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, with significant sit-ins scheduled in front of state Assemblies in Patna and Vijayawada on March 26 and 29, respectively, marking the initial phase of their agitation.
The joint committee of Parliament has released its report regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill.
Although not yet on the agenda, there are rumors that the proposed legislation could be tabled for approval in Parliament during the current Budget session.
The 31-member committee, after numerous meetings and hearings, proposed several changes to the suggested legislation, despite opposition members expressing their disagreement with these amendments.
The committee's report, which includes modifications recommended by ruling BJP members, was passed by a majority vote.
This action has led the opposition to label the process as an endeavor to undermine Waqf boards. The Bill was referred to this joint committee on August 8 of the previous year, following its introduction in the Lok Sabha by the Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju.
It is important to highlight that J&K possesses extensive Waqf properties valued in billions of rupees. While many of these properties were transferred to public ownership during the Lt Governor’s administration, numerous properties still belong to certain families and local religious boards.
