– S.M. Shareef
The proposed Waqf (Amendment) Bill is a direct violation of constitutional values. The refusal to consider amendments suggested by opposition representatives in the JPC is a clear display of authoritarian tendencies. Suspending opposition MPs from the JPC at one stage is highly condemnable. If this bill becomes law, it will pave the way for corporate giants like Adani and Ambani to seize properties that were dedicated by Muslims for social welfare.
In this NDA government, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) plays a crucial role. Traditionally, TDP stood as a symbol of state rights, democratic values, and the self-respect of Telugu people. However, in NDA 3, it appears to have compromised its self-respect by failing to secure even key ministerial positions. Moreover, TDP has openly supported the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024. When the bill was introduced in Parliament, TDP backed it while simultaneously proposing that it be sent to the JPC, creating an illusion of concern for Muslim welfare. By doing so, Chandrababu Naidu avoided direct conflict within the NDA but lost the trust of the Muslim community.
In the 2024 elections, with strong anti-incumbency sentiments against the Jagan government, a significant portion of Muslim votes shifted to TDP, contributing to its victory. The current government includes three Muslim MLAs. Despite this, Chandrababu Naidu’s disregard for Muslim sentiments exposes the underlying communal nature of TDP, which was previously perceived as a secular party. This is unacceptable to the Muslim community.
With the rise of communal politics in Andhra Pradesh, the state is heading towards a future similar to that of North India. Adding fuel to the fire, Janasena leader Pawan Kalyan has been making provocative statements. In this volatile situation, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament soon. This bill is undoubtedly a severe blow to the existence of Muslims. The massive support TDP received from the Muslim community in the last elections played a crucial role in its victory. However, TDP’s enthusiasm for this bill will prove to be a political blunder, leading to a permanent loss of Muslim support.
Meanwhile, the authoritarian BJP, under the guise of simultaneous elections (Jamili elections), is strategizing to eliminate regional parties. TDP’s indifference to this threat will cost it dearly. At least now, TDP has a historic opportunity to protect the fundamental spirit of the Constitution by passing a resolution in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. If it fails to do so, TDP will inevitably be relegated to history.
