NEW DELHI: The request of Kerala Catholic Bishops Council (KCBC) to all MPs of the state to support Waqf Amendment Bill, has come as a shot in the arm for govt, as it looks set to bring bill for consideration of Parliament in the ongoing Budget session.
While BJP welcomed the appeal, asserting that only Parliament has authority to amend the bill, Congress criticised it, questioning the need for such an interference. Union minister of minority and parliamentary affairs Kiren Rijiju said the request letter sent by KCBC is ‘extremely important for everybody’.
“Many organisations across communities are supporting the bill. We must understand that the bill is basically in interest of poor Muslims, children and women and that properties of waqf are managed transparently. We ensure the welfare of common people. Who are those who are opposing this bill – there are a few powerful people who have encroached upon waqf properties… It’s everyone’s right to criticise things, but criticism must have some substance in it,” he said.
KCBC has urged MPs from Kerala to support the bill, drawing varied reactions from political parties.
The appeal was also welcomed by finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who acknowledged KCBC’s stance, calling it “a welcome step.” She highlighted the Bishops’ demand to amend sections of the Waqf Act that they view as “unfair” and “anti-constitutional”.
Congress’ Hussain Dalwai criticised KCBC’s stance, saying, “There’s no need for such interference. MPs will not be swayed by this appeal. There are many trusts and organisations, primarily managed by Christian communities. It’s wrong to assume the govt should interfere in their matters.”
Kerala BJP chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar said many Christian organisations are extending support to the bill after poor families in Munambam claimed to be living under threat of their land being seized by waqf board.
About The Author
