Waqf Bill gets President Droupadi Murmu's assent

NEW DELHI: President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill earlier passed by both houses. The new bill was challenged by Congress, AIMIM, and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the Supreme Court. Earlier, five Muslim League MPs had written to the President to not approve the Waqf Amendment Bill. The MPs pointed out in the letter that the bill violates fundamental rights under Articles 1 (Freedom to practice religion), 25 (Freedom of religion), and 14 (Equality before the law).

The central government passed the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Rajya Sabha amidst heated debates and protests from both the ruling party and the opposition. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju presented the bill in the Rajya Sabha. The issue of Munambam was also raised during the session, with Kerala MPs reiterating their support for the people of Munambam. Union Minister J.P. Nadda defended the bill, stating that it would strengthen the nation.

Meanwhile, dissatisfaction has emerged within the Muslim League regarding Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi. The League expressed disappointment that Rahul Gandhi did not speak during the Lok Sabha debate, and Priyanka Gandhi was absent. Given that Priyanka secured a significant majority in Wayanad with crucial minority votes, League leaders believe both leaders should have strongly voiced Muslim community concerns in the Lok Sabha.

Reflecting this sentiment, Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Sonia Gandhi fiercely opposed the bill in the Rajya Sabha. Kharge criticized it as an encroachment on minority rights, while Sonia Gandhi accused the BJP of attempting communal polarization.

"The bill is unconstitutional and undermines the secular and federal nature of the country."

— Adv. Haris Beeran, Muslim League