BJP Accuses Opposition of Dodging Key Debate on Waqf (Amendment) Bill

BJP leader Mohsin Raza has criticized the opposition for avoiding discussions on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, accusing them of past flawed laws. While BJP supports the bill, opposition members have protested its presentation, leading to session adjournments in Parliament following the JPC report submission.

In a vehement critique, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Mohsin Raza accused the opposition of shying away from critical discussions on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, attributing past legislative failings and contentious land occupations to them. Raza insisted that the opposition's avoidance of debate reflects their accountability for problematic laws.

Raza asserted that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill benefits the public and enjoys broad endorsement, urging an open conversation. Speaking in Lucknow, he challenged the opposition, asking why they evade dialogue on a bill aimed at the public's welfare, receiving widespread acclaim. Raza declared, "The public also wants it... We welcome it."

Meanwhile, BJP's CP Joshi said that despite a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) report on the bill being tabled, opposition protests continued during its presentation. The uproar in Rajya Sabha followed the report's submission, leading to session adjournments. JPC Chairman Jagadambika Pal highlighted six months of nationwide consultations, culminating in 25 amendments to the bill.

(With inputs from agencies.)