Pasmanda Muslims and backward classes remain underrepresented, says AIMIM chief
New Delhi: AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi has taken aim at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over its recent stance on the Waqf Board, pointing out that women have had reservations within the Waqf Board since 2013. Speaking at an event on September 22, Owaisi also addressed the inclusion of ‘Pasmanda’ Muslims, emphasizing that there are no restrictions preventing their participation in the Waqf Board, reported The Hindustan Times.
Owaisi questioned the BJP’s commitment to true inclusivity, particularly referencing the Bihar Hindu Religious Trust Act of 1950. “Will the BJP amend this Act to include women and backward classes?” the Hyderabad MP asked, underscoring the lack of female and backward class representation in Hindu religious bodies.
He further criticized the government’s inconsistent approach towards ‘Pasmanda’ Muslims, stating, “If the BJP truly cares about ‘Pasmanda’ Muslims, why are they excluded from the Scheduled Caste category? And why are there attempts to remove Muslims from the Backward Caste lists in several states?”
Owaisi’s remarks were in response to comments made by Union Minister Giriraj Singh, who had called for reforms in the Waqf Board to benefit poor Muslim women and ‘Pasmanda’ Muslims, while accusing the Waqf Board of land-grabbing. Singh had remarked, “The Congress gave too many powers to the Waqf Board. ‘Na khaata, na bahi, jo Waqf kahe wahi sahi’ [No record, no ledger, what the Waqf says is final].”
Owaisi’s critique reflects the ongoing debate surrounding reforms to the Waqf Board, with growing concerns over inclusivity and representation.
