Hyderabad: The Janasena Party’s decision to support the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, scheduled for discussion in the Lok Sabha on April 2, has drawn criticism from sections of the Muslim community. While the party claims the bill will benefit Muslims, many have expressed disappointment, arguing that the amendments may not align with the true interests of the Waqf properties and their rightful beneficiaries, reported the Times of India.
In an official statement, Janasena highlighted that its chief, Pawan Kalyan, had instructed the party’s two MPs to vote in favor of the bill. According to the party, Kalyan believes that updating the colonial-era Waqf Act will help address contemporary challenges and ensure better management of Waqf assets.
However, many Muslim scholars and activists have voiced concerns, stating that the bill could lead to further government intervention in Waqf affairs, potentially diluting community control over these endowments. Critics argue that instead of truly empowering the Waqf Board and protecting Waqf lands, the bill may serve political interests rather than addressing long-standing grievances related to encroachments and mismanagement.
Janasena, a part of the ruling NDA alliance in Andhra Pradesh alongside the TDP and BJP, has increasingly aligned with policies that have raised concerns among Muslim organizations. The party’s support for the bill has led to disappointment, as many did not anticipate this stance from Kalyan, who previously positioned himself as an advocate for all communities.
The move has sparked debates about the broader implications of the bill and whether it truly safeguards the rights of the Muslim community. Critics have called for a thorough review of the amendments to ensure they genuinely serve the intended purpose of protecting Waqf properties.
