TDP Leader On Waqf Bill: In the recently concluded monsoon session of Parliament, the BJP-led NDA government introduced the Waqf Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha, which was opposed by the opposition coalition INDIA. At the same time, leaders of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), which is part of the NDA government, have also expressed concern about this.
According to the Indian Express report, Telugu Desam Party minority cell general secretary Fathullah Mohammed called parts of the bill worrisome and urged his party to consult Muslim leaders before supporting it in Parliament. Muslims make up around 12-13% of Andhra Pradesh’s population, so the TDP wants to ensure that it does not anger the community by supporting controversial sections of the proposed bill.
’40 sections are harmful for Wakf Board and Muslims’
Speaking to The Indian Express, he said, “There are at least 40 sections in the bill that are detrimental to the functioning of Muslims and Wakf boards. TDP welcomes the bill but the changes made in the draft bill are a matter of concern. The purpose of amendments is to strengthen the law, but instead in the draft (of Wakf Amendment Bill) we find that everything is being weakened. There are five or six major points that need attention.”
What are the objections to
The TDP leader said, “There is a provision to make two Muslim MPs members in the Central Wakf Council. This rule has been abolished and provision has been made to make two women members. We have no objection to this, but the condition of being Muslim has been abolished. The work of the Wakf Board is to visit religious places like mosques and dargahs and only Muslims who have knowledge about the faith can perform certain duties.”
He further said, “Weakening of the Waqf Tribunal, which is appointed by the government and headed by a sitting or retired judge, is another point of contention. The tribunal ensures that waqf properties are protected from encroachment. Now, the bill gives power to district collectors, who are likely to follow the orders of the state government. This will lead to “collector raj” on waqf lands.”
‘TDP chief understands the concerns’
He said, “It is good that Naidu understands our concerns. He advised to refer the bill to the joint committee. Vijayawada MP Kesineni Shivanath and Amalapuram MP G M Harish are also in favour of discussion and debate on the sections which may be harmful to Muslims and can be misused.”
The TDP leader said, “Narasaravapet MP Lavu Srikrishna Devaraylu is part of the joint committee and he will clarify our views on the proposed amendments. Andhra Pradesh TDP urges for a proper debate on the Minority Cell Bill and our party strongly supports us on this demand.”
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