JD(U) Defends Waqf (Amendment) Bill Amid Opposition Uproar

JD(U) leader Rajiv Ranjan Singh defended the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, stating its aim to bring transparency to the Waqf Board. Despite objections from opposition leaders, Singh emphasized that the bill is not anti-Muslim and aims to ensure fair governance. The bill also includes provisions for the representation of Muslim women and non-Muslims.

Janata Dal (U) leader and Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh 'Lalan' on Thursday defended the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, asserting it aims to bring transparency in the functioning of the Waqf Board and does not intend to interfere with mosque administration.

As opposition leaders vehemently opposed the Bill, Singh stood firm amid the uproar. 'Whether JD(U) is in opposition or support, I must record my view,' Singh stated.

Singh argued, 'Several members portray the amendment as anti-Muslim. How is it anti-Muslim? We must distinguish between a temple and an institution. This law aims to make institutions transparent.' Singh accused opposition parties of spreading falsehoods and referenced the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. He emphasized the necessity of the Bill to ensure transparency, including provisions for Muslim women and non-Muslims in the Wakf boards.