Sanjay Raut Questions Concern for Muslims in Waqf Bill

Synopsis
On April 3, 2023, Sanjay Raut, an MP from Shiv Sena (UBT), expressed his firm opposition to the Waqf Board (Amendment) Bill, arguing that it fails to serve the interests of society or the nation. He questioned the government's sudden concern for Muslims and criticized its motives.
Key Takeaways
- Sanjay Raut opposes Waqf Board (Amendment) Bill.
- Questions government's sudden concern for Muslims.
- Critics suggest bill distracts from economic issues.
- Raut highlights government's inconsistent treatment of Muslims.
- Cautions against potential divisions in society.
New Delhi, April 3 (NationPress) Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut vehemently opposed the Waqf Board (Amendment) Bill, asserting that it serves neither societal nor national interests.
During the parliamentary discussion, Raut commented on the newfound concern for impoverished Muslims in both houses. "For the last two days, there has been an extraordinary display of concern for poor Muslims. This is so peculiar that it frightens me -- Muslims are frightened, and Hindus are frightened. Even Barrister Muhammad Ali Jinnah did not show such concern for Muslims," he stated.
He criticized the government's motives, saying, "We once had faith that we were collectively building a Hindu nation. But after listening to your speeches, I feel you are constructing a Hindu Pakistan."
Accusing the government of using the Bill to distract the public, Raut highlighted economic issues, including the 26 percent tariff imposed on India by U.S. President Donald Trump.
"Instead of addressing how this tariff will affect our economy and currency, you have redirected the focus onto Hindus and Muslims," he remarked.
Raut further alleged that the ruling party frequently brings up religious issues whenever unemployment, inflation, and economic hardships become pressing topics.
"Since when did you start caring about Muslims? You label them as thieves, accuse them of snatching mangalsutras, and claim they steal cows and buffaloes. And now, all of a sudden, you are concerned about them?" he questioned.
He also criticized the Home Minister’s remarks about aiding poor Muslim women through the sale of vacant land.
"There has been a scam involving 13,000 acres of land in Ayodhya, and 300 kg of gold has disappeared in Kedarnath. You cannot even protect Hindu religious lands, yet you claim to safeguard Muslim lands?" Raut contended.
Raut maintained that the bill is ambiguous and designed to incite tensions. "This legislation does not benefit our society or our nation. It merely seeks to rekindle divisions," he stated.