VHP Accuses 'Fundamentalist' Leaders of Misleading Muslims Regarding Waqf Bill
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Synopsis
VHP's Vinod Bansal claims that 'fundamentalist' Muslim leaders mislead the public against the Waqf Bill for political gain, undermining democracy. He asserts the Bill will benefit Muslims and secure Waqf properties.
Key Takeaways
- VHP's stance against opposition to the Waqf Bill.
- Call for informed discussion before forming opinions on the Bill.
- Concerns over protests being used improperly.
- Waqf properties should benefit the rightful beneficiaries.
- Criticism of political motives behind the opposition.
New Delhi, April 2 (NationPress) Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) National Spokesperson, Vinod Bansal, on Wednesday claimed that certain "fundamentalist" Muslim leaders were misleading the public for their own political interests by opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. He asserted that their actions were not just against the Bill but against the very essence of India's democracy.
Bansal's comments followed Jagdambika Pal, Chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf Bill, declaring that the Bill would be presented in Parliament on Wednesday and would serve the interests of Muslims nationwide.
Nevertheless, he noted that the Opposition was misleading the public without even considering the proposal.
"A faction of fundamentalist Muslim leadership in the country is attempting to fulfill its political objectives by inciting, misleading, and spreading falsehoods among Muslims. How can one oppose a Bill that hasn't even been introduced in Parliament yet? It should be presented first, then we can determine whether it is beneficial or not. Nobody knows the contents of the Bill, yet they are against it," Bansal stated in an interview with IANS.
"They are not just opposing the Bill but undermining India, Parliament, parliamentary traditions, and Indian democracy. I emphasize that under the healthy traditions of our Parliament, everyone has the right to express their views. You can oppose, support, agree, or disagree, but at least let the matter be discussed before forming an opinion," he continued.
Expressing astonishment at the protests, Bansal remarked, "I was taken aback when they made 'namaz' a focal point of their opposition to the Bill. They are invoking Allah, emerging from mosques wearing black bands, and attempting to create unrest. Why is this happening? How long will this go on? This is unacceptable. Our democracy offers various avenues for protest."
"Debate it in Parliament, demonstrate outside it; there's nothing wrong with using democratic means of opposition. However, protests must remain peaceful. Disturbances and property damage will not be tolerated," he added.
Taking a jab at AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi without naming him, Bansal said, "The prominent figure from Hyderabad; I've heard he possesses a barrister degree from England, yet he never approaches the High Court or Supreme Court on these matters. If he is so passionate, the judicial route is available. But is it right to incite Muslims and provoke them to resort to violence under the guise of a 'Muslim war'?"
He indicated that those opposing the Bill were motivated by a fear of losing power and the "illegal benefits" they have enjoyed.
Bansal further contended that the Bill would guarantee that Waqf properties are used for their intended beneficiaries.
"I believe this Bill will signify the Independence Day of the country’s properties. It seems that parliamentary independence is being strengthened today, and significant properties will finally be allocated to those who truly deserve them. Those who have illegally occupied Waqf Board properties will now be compelled to return them," he stated.
He called on Muslim women to back the Bill, emphasizing that it would ultimately serve their interests.
Highlighting the extensive holdings of the Waqf Board, Bansal remarked, "This Bill contains several provisions designed to secure Waqf properties and ensure their appropriate usage. The Waqf Board has managed vast properties for decades. In terms of land ownership, it ranks among the top three entities after Indian Railways and the Army. But have these properties ever benefited the average Muslim? No, because a handful of fundamentalist leaders have seized control of them. That control is about to end."
Critiquing the Opposition's position, Bansal stated, "This is not merely appeasement politics; I refer to it as 'jihadist' politics. Just yesterday, in Mumbai, I observed some Muslim ulemas gathering, where they issued threats to politicians and parties stating, 'if you support this Bill, we will take action.' Such threats will no longer be effective."
