In a highly contested move, a private member bill proposing the repeal of the Waqf Act, 1995, was introduced in the Rajya Sabha by BJP MP Harnath Singh Yadav. The Waqf Repeal Bill 2022 faced strong opposition from various parties, including the Congress, TMC, DMK, CPI, CPI (M), and RJD, leading to a division of votes.
Despite the protests, the bill’s introduction was approved with 53 members, primarily from the treasury benches, voting in favor, while 32 opposed the move. Yadav subsequently introduced the bill, which will be taken up for discussion later.
Critics, including Elamaram Kareem of CPI (M), emphasized the significance of Waqf Boards in managing religious places and orphanages, warning that meddling with such sensitive matters could create communal divisions. John Brittas of CPI (M) argued that the bill’s primary objective seems to be sowing animosity and polarization, urging against measures that contribute to disharmony, contrary to constitutional principles.
Several other members from different parties, such as Tiruchi Siva (DMK), Sandosh Kumar P (CPI), and V Sivadasan (CPI-M), expressed strong opposition, labeling the private member bill as an attempt to foster communal discord.
Jawhar Sircar (TMC), Syed Naseer Hussain (Congress), Fauzia Khan (NCP), Mahua Maji (JMM), and Manoj Kumar Jha (RJD) also voiced their reservations, emphasizing the potential far-reaching impact on society.
The Chair did not permit Rakesh Sinha (nominated) to speak, restricting comments to those opposing the bill during the introductory stage. The contentious nature of the proposed repeal underscores the delicate balance between religious and legislative considerations in India’s political landscape.
