In a controversial statement, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Vijay Kumar Sinha declared that those opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill would be considered “traitors” and could face arrest. “This is not Pakistan, this is Hindustan,” he stated firmly, adding, “This is the Narendra Modi government. Those who break the law will be arrested.”
The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, which has already been passed by both Houses of Parliament, has sparked widespread debate. It was cleared in the Lok Sabha with 288 votes in favor and 232 against, while the Rajya Sabha saw 128 votes in favor and 95 opposing.
Despite its legislative victory, the Bill has drawn criticism from various quarters, including within the ruling JD(U) itself. Sinha, however, remained unyielding in his support, saying, “Those who oppose the Bill are traitors. Such people should be immediately arrested.”
The Bill, which proposes changes in the management of Waqf properties across India, has led to visible rifts within JD(U), with at least five leaders resigning in protest over the party’s backing of the legislation.
The strong remarks from the Deputy CM have added fuel to the already intense political discourse surrounding the Waqf Amendment Bill. The BJP-led NDA views the Bill as a reformative step, while critics argue it threatens minority rights and autonomy in managing religious endowments.
