SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav Opposes Waqf Act Amendment Bill, Accuses Centre of Undermining Speaker

On Thursday, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav strongly opposed the Waqf Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024, during a tense Lok Sabha session.

Criticism of the Bill

Akhilesh Yadav denounced the provision to include non-Muslims in the Waqf Board, arguing that it lacks justification and is part of a broader political strategy. He questioned the rationale behind the amendment, stating, “This Bill is being introduced as part of a well-thought-out political strategy. Where other religious bodies do not include anyone not belonging to the same religion, what is the point of including non-Muslims in the Waqf Board?”

Accusations Against the BJP

Yadav accused the BJP of using the Bill to appease its core supporters, asserting, “Frustrated and disappointed, BJP is working to bring this Bill to satisfy its staunch supporters. There is no justification for including non-Muslims in the Waqf Board.”

Concerns About Speaker’s Authority

The SP President also expressed concerns about the rights of the Lok Sabha Speaker, suggesting that the government was undermining the Speaker’s authority. He remarked, “Recall, Speaker sir, I told you that you are the judge of democracy. I have heard in the lobby that this government is snatching your rights also. We will fight for you.”

Rebuttal from Amit Shah

In response, Union Home Minister Amit Shah countered, “Speaker’s rights are not just yours but of the entire House. You are not the custodian of rights.”

Intervention by Lok Sabha Speaker

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla intervened, asking Yadav to be seated and urging members to avoid personal comments and maintain decorum. “There should not be any personal comments on the Parliament or the Chair. This is my request to all the members of the House,” Birla said.

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Opposition Disruptions

Earlier in the day, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju introduced the Waqf Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha, leading to disruptions by the Opposition. The Bill aims to amend the Waqf Act of 1995 and repeal the Mussalman Waqf Act of 1923.

Congress Leader’s Objections

Congress leader KC Venugopal also voiced strong objections, labeling the Bill as an “attack” on the Constitution.