The Indian central government has finalized preparations to introduce the Wakf Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, aiming for its subsequent passage. Home Minister Amit Shah, in a key strategic move, has initiated discussions with NDA allies regarding the bill.
New Delhi: The government is set to introduce the Wakf Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, intending to secure its passage. The bill, revised following a joint committee report, is now poised for parliamentary proceedings. Home Minister Amit Shah has personally taken responsibility for the bill's passage. Prior to its introduction, Shah has been actively engaged in strategic preparations.
However, the bill's fate hinges on the stance of two NDA allies with significant influence within the Muslim community. Their support or opposition will significantly impact the bill's passage.
Amit Shah's Communication with JDU
Regarding the Wakf Amendment Bill, Amit Shah met with leaders of the Janata Dal (United), a key NDA ally in Bihar. Shah held meetings with JDU president Lalan Singh and MP Sanjay Jha, assuring them about various aspects of the bill. While the JDU hasn't explicitly stated its final position, the discussions clearly indicate the government's efforts to secure their support.
IUML's Opposition and Unconstitutional Allegations
Opposition parties have also intensified their activities regarding the bill. The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has opposed the Wakf Amendment Bill, terming it "unconstitutional." Party MP E.T. Mohammed Basheer alleged that the bill aims to seize Wakf properties. He stated that the party would bly oppose the bill due to its potential harm to the Muslim community.
TDP's Support and the Importance of Wakf Amendment
The Modi government has secured the support of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) on this bill. Party spokesperson Prem Kumar Jain issued a statement declaring their support, stating that Chandrababu Naidu will support the bill to protect the interests of Muslims. However, they clarified that a final comment would be made after the bill's introduction.
Government's Position in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha
The government requires b parliamentary support to pass the Wakf Amendment Bill. The government enjoys a comfortable majority. In the Lok Sabha, the government enjoys the support of 293 MPs, while its position in the Rajya Sabha is also b. With 98 BJP MPs and the support of NDA allies, the government's numbers reach 121, sufficient for the bill's passage.
Amendments to the Bill
The bill was referred to a joint parliamentary committee last year, leading to several amendments. The government is now striving for the bill's smooth passage. Opposition parties are protesting, considering it anti-Muslim and unconstitutional. The government views the bill as a crucial step towards better oversight and utilization of Wakf properties. If passed, this bill will significantly impact Indian politics and the Muslim community.
