New Delhi [India], November 28 : Opposing the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024, Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Awadhesh Prasad on Thursday stated that the Waqf system has historically provided education, food, clothing, and other essentials to underprivileged children.
He further asserted that any interference with Waqf properties would not be tolerated.
"Countless poor children benefit from Waqf, receiving education, food, clothing, and opportunities to earn a livelihood. The BJP's intentions regarding this matter appear dubious. We will not accept any interference with Waqf properties, which ensure protection, health, and income for millions of Indians. If the amendment proposed is against the Waqf, it will not pass," said the Samajwadi Party MP.
Meanwhile, the West Bengal Jamiat-e-Ulama organised a protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, introduced by the Central government and currently under review by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC).
Maulana Siddiqullah Chowdhury, president of the West Bengal Jamiat-e-Ulama, told ANI that the Centre has violated constitutional principles by introducing the Waqf Bill.
"The Constitution of India guarantees everyone the freedom to oppose actions that undermine it. By proposing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, the Central government has directly attacked the Constitution. They aim to strip Muslims of their rights and destroy Waqf properties. They should refrain from such provocations. This is beyond the Prime Minister's jurisdiction. Hindus own ten times more property, yet only Muslims are being targeted. We oppose this bill and demand its immediate withdrawal. The Central government is acting communally, seeking to weaken and divide the country," said Siddiqullah Chowdhury.
Notably, the Lok Sabha on Thursday passed a motion to extend the term of the JPC on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, directing the committee to submit its report by the end of the 2025 budget session.