Muslim Personal Law Board appeals 'secular parties' to strongly oppose Waqf Bill in Lok Sabha

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has appealed to all secular political parties, including allies of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Members of Parliament (MPs), to oppose the Waqf (Amendment) Bill when it comes up for discussion and passage in the Lok Sabha on April 2. In a statement, the AIMPLB urged MPs not to support the bill under any circumstances. "The President of the AIMPLB, Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani, has called on all secular parties and MPs to not only oppose the Waqf Amendment Bill but also vote against it to prevent the BJP’s communal agenda," the statement read.

Rahmani alleged that the proposed amendment is discriminatory and violates fundamental rights enshrined in Articles 14, 25, and 26 of the



Constitution. He claimed that the bill aims to weaken Waqf laws, potentially enabling the seizure and destruction of Waqf properties.

The AIMPLB also argued that despite the existence of the Places of Worship Act, there is a growing trend of searching for temples within mosques. "If this amendment is passed, it will lead to an increase in illegitimate claims on Waqf properties, making it easier for Collectors and District Magistrates to take control of them," the statement added.

Rahmani further stated that India is known globally for its communal harmony and mutual respect among religious communities. However, he expressed concern that the current administration seeks to disrupt this harmony, leading to instability and unrest.