West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee strongly criticized the central government over the Waqf Amendment Bill, which was tabled in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday. Speaking at a press conference, she accused the BJP of trying to divide the country for political gains.
“The jumla party’s only agenda is to divide the country. They believe in the policy of divide and rule, which we do not. First, learn to respect the Constitution before taking away someone’s rights,” Banerjee said.
The controversy erupted after the Union Minority Affairs Minister introduced the Waqf Amendment Bill, which was recommended by a Joint Parliamentary Committee. The bill was tabled for consideration and passage in the Lower House.
Waqf refers to assets designated for religious or charitable purposes under Islamic law, which cannot be sold or used for any other purpose.
Opposition leaders slammed the bill, calling it unconstitutional. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav took a dig at the government’s decision to rename the bill as the Unified Waqf Management Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development Bill—shortened to UMEED (hope).
“The minister called this bill ‘hope’ (Umeed), but after listening to his statements in both Hindi and English, I fail to understand how this bill is supposed to bring hope,” Yadav said.
He also criticized the BJP, saying, “Right now, there is a competition within the BJP to see who is the worst Hindu. I am not saying this lightly. The party that claims to be the largest in the country has not even been able to select its national president.” His remarks drew objections from NDA MPs.
Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah defended the bill, accusing the Congress of spreading misinformation. He assured that the legislation does not interfere with Muslims’ religious matters.
