Maharashtra CM: Waqf (Amendment) Bill Respects All Faiths
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Synopsis
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis champions the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, highlighting its provision for female representation in the Waqf Board and asserting that it aligns with the religious beliefs of all communities. He critiques opposition motives while endorsing the bill's potential for reform.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra CM advocates for Waqf (Amendment) Bill.
- Bill includes representation for women in Waqf Board.
- Claims it does not oppose any community's beliefs.
- Criticism of opposition for perceived vote manipulation.
- Internal divisions in Sena UBT regarding the Bill.
Mumbai, April 2 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, asserted on Wednesday that the Waqf (Amended) Bill has ensured female representation on the Waqf Board, marking a significant advancement.
“This legislation does not conflict with the religious convictions of any community. Those with a sense of morality will back this Bill. The new Bill provides a chance to rectify past errors. Women are now represented. This is a noteworthy initiative that does not oppose any faith. Some individuals have exploited previous mistakes to destabilize the situation; no ethically-minded MP will reject this Bill. The opposition's claims in the JPC were unchallenged. Their actions are merely intended to sway voters,” he stated.
The Chief Minister further emphasized that those who still hold Balasaheb Thackeray’s principles dear will endorse the Bill.
On Tuesday, Fadnavis criticized the Shiv Sena UBT, questioning whether they would champion the philosophies of Balasaheb Thackeray, the Hinduhruday Samrat, and the esteemed leader, or if they would align with Rahul Gandhi's path of appeasement.
Shiv Sena Deputy Sanjay Nirupam also launched a pointed critique against Sena UBT, accusing them of betraying their values for the sake of Muslim votes by opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill.
He highlighted that while all NDA partners, including Shiv Sena, endorse the Bill, opposition parties are trying to obstruct it under the guise of secularism and noted that there is internal discord within Sena UBT on this matter.
“There are conflicting opinions among the nine MPs of Sena UBT regarding the Bill. Some, who remain loyal to the ideology of Hindu Hriday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray, are leaning towards support. Intense discussions were held within the party until late last night,” Nirupam disclosed.
However, he claimed that ultimately, Sena UBT will oppose the Bill due to their political reliance on Muslim votes.
“Initially, when the Bill was presented, Sena UBT MPs shied away from the discussion. Now, the true challenge begins - will Uddhav Thackeray, who professes to honor Balasaheb Thackeray’s legacy, resist essential reforms and adopt an anti-Balasaheb position?”
He further questioned whether Sena UBT had completely embraced Congress’s vote bank strategy, forsaking their Hindutva identity for political appeasement.
Nirupam also criticized opposition parties for providing misleading information to the Muslim community regarding the Bill. He noted that the Sachar Commission, which investigated the economic and social conditions of Muslims, had recommended transparency in Waqf Board operations.
