New Delhi – The Waqf Amendment Bill is slated for presentation in the Lok Sabha today, with the government finalizing all necessary preparations. Sources indicate that the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) have agreed to support the bill with minor amendments. However, the government has decided to retain the contentious “Waqf by-user” clause.
In response to the bill’s possible ramifications, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) held an emergency executive meeting on Wednesday at the Islamic Centre in New Delhi. The primary agenda was to assess the bill’s potential impact and formulate a response strategy.
Of the 51 executive members, only 35 attended the meeting, with several key members citing prior commitments to religious gatherings . Their absence has raised concerns about the board’s prioritization of urgent issues such as Waqf matters and the Common Civil Code.
The AIMPLB has not yet finalized its course of action but is considering three possible responses: launching a public movement, mobilizing protests, or pursuing legal avenues. However, uncertainty persists regarding the board’s ability to mount strong resistance. With the government’s firm stance, the bill is expected to pass without major obstacles.
A critical question remains: Can AIMPLB mobilize a mass movement akin to the farmers’ protest? With Ramadan approaching and leadership appearing unprepared for prolonged action, the likelihood of large-scale resistance appears uncertain.
