Insignificant political noise: JD(U)'s Neeraj Kumar after 3 Muslim leaders quit party over Waqf

IANS April 4, 2025 150 views

A significant political controversy has erupted within the JD(U) after three Muslim leaders resigned in protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill. Party spokesperson Neeraj Kumar aggressively dismissed their exit, calling it "non-valued gossip" and suggesting the leaders lack substantial voter support. Kumar strongly defended Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's minority welfare credentials, highlighting past development initiatives. The Waqf Bill remains contentious, with BJP claiming reform intentions while opposition sees it as potentially marginalizing Muslim communities.

"They have no existence of their own. They get 399 votes and call themselves leaders" - Neeraj Kumar, JD(U)
Patna, April 4: After three leaders quit the JD(U) over its support to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill-2025, party spokesperson Neeraj Kumar on Friday said it is insignificant political noise as "those who resigned don't have a strong voter base".

Key Points

1

Three Muslim leaders quit JD(U) over controversial Waqf Amendment Bill

2

Neeraj Kumar claims resignations are politically insignificant

3

Nitish Kumar praised for minority community development

4

PM Modi hails bill as step toward socio-economic justice

"This is just non-valued gossip," Kumar told IANS.

"They have no existence of their own. They get 399 votes and call themselves leaders with a mass base," Kumar said.

His remarks were directed at Mohammad Kasim Ansari, Mohammad Shahnawaz Malik, and Mohammad Tabrez Aleeg, who resigned from JD(U).

He said that Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar has always worked for the development and protection of minorities.

"The Nitish Kumar government fenced the temples and graveyards, which should have been done by the mutts and Waqf Board, respectively," Kumar said.

Anjuman Islamia Hall was turned into ruins under RJD chief Lalu Prasad's tenure, but CM Nitish renovated it into a 'sheesh mahal' (glass palace), he said.

Claiming that minorities back CM Nitish, he said: "Lives of the minority community people are improving, and their standard of living is rising under his leadership."

"There is nothing to fear if CM Nitish is there. His works speak volumes," he said, praising the leader.

After the Bill was passed by Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed it as a step toward "socio-economic justice and transparency".

BJP leaders argue that it will curb the "misuse" of Waqf land, benefit poor and backward Muslims -- particularly Pasmandas -- and introduce greater accountability in Waqf property management.

However, opposition parties and Muslim leaders view the bill as a direct attack on minority rights, alleging that it is a tool to seize Waqf lands and further marginalise the community under the guise of reform.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Interesting perspective from JD(U). If these leaders truly had no voter base, why even mention them? 🤔 Seems like more than just "insignificant noise" if they felt the need to respond.
A
Ayesha M.
As a Muslim citizen, I appreciate development works but the tone here feels dismissive. Leaders should address concerns respectfully, not mock resignations. The Waqf issue needs thoughtful discussion.
S
Sunil P.
Nitish Kumar has done good work no doubt, but calling it "non-valued gossip" when community leaders express concerns isn't the right approach. Governance should include listening to all voices.
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Priya R.
The renovation of Anjuman Islamia Hall is commendable! More such developmental projects please 🙌 But political parties should avoid unnecessary mudslinging.
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Vikram S.
Whether you agree with the bill or not, calling opponents' concerns "gossip" isn't statesmanlike. Healthy democracy needs respectful debate, not dismissal.
M
Meena T.
Let's focus on facts - if the Waqf amendment brings transparency as claimed, it should be welcomed. But implementation will be key! Hope it benefits those who need it most.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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