Waistline of Controversy: Lok Sabha Erupts over Waqf Bill as Gaurav Gogoi Leads Congress Frontal Attack, Rijiju Stands Firm Defending the Bill

In a heated exchange, the Lok Sabha saw intense opposition to the proposed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, led by Deputy Leader of the Congress, Gaurav Gogoi. Gogoi argued that the government is attempting to dilute constitutional principles and marginalize minority communities. He accused the government of launching a “deliberate attempt to defame India’s minorities, divide society, and eventually disenfranchise them,” warning that the proposed amendments could set a “dangerous precedent for targeting other religious communities in the future.”

Gogoi highlighted concerns over restrictions on Eid celebrations in BJP-ruled states, alleging that people are being denied the right to offer Namaz peacefully. He also criticized the government for not clarifying the number of minority MPs, suggesting that they lack representation. The opposition fiercely opposed the bill, labeling it “unconstitutional” and accusing the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) of attempting to strip Muslims of their rights.

Union Minister for Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, defended the bill, assuring the House that the government has no intention of interfering in religious institutions and that the bill aims to enhance transparency and efficiency in the management of Waqf properties. Rijiju dismissed the opposition’s outrage, stating that the government is not trying to “streamline the management of Waqf properties” but rather to introduce much-needed reforms. The Union Minister emphasized that the government respects all religious institutions and their autonomy.

The bill, which is currently known as the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, proposes to revise the Waqf Act, 1995, to address challenges in the regulation and administration of Waqf properties. The government has argued that the proposed amendments will improve governance and ensure the efficient management of Waqf assets. Critics, however, believe that the amendments will marginalize minority communities and lead to the loss of their rights.

In a dramatic twist, the Union Minister announced that the bill will be renamed the Unified Waqf Management Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) Bill, prompting further opposition from the House. The debate has raised concerns over the government’s intentions and the impact of the proposed amendments on minority communities. As the debate rages on, the fate of the bill and its implications for India’s religious minorities remain uncertain.

Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/national/lok-sabha-storms-over-waqf-bill-gaurav-gogoi-leads-congress-attack-rijiju-defends-1573090
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Publish Date: 2025-04-02 15:57:00