Muslim community upset over LoP's silence on Waqf Bill, says Mayawati

IANS April 12, 2025 297 views

Bahujan Samaj Party leader Mayawati has launched a scathing attack on Congress MP Rahul Gandhi for his perceived silence during the Waqf Bill debate. She argues that his inaction has triggered significant resentment within the Muslim community and reflects a broader pattern of political betrayal. Mayawati claims both Congress and BJP are equally responsible for undermining the rights of marginalized groups. The Waqf Amendment Bill, now law, has already faced legal challenges from multiple opposition parties and sparked protests across India.

"Is it appropriate for the Leader of Opposition to remain silent during the lengthy debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill?" - Mayawati
Muslim community upset over LoP's silence on Waqf Bill, says Mayawati
Lucknow, April 12: Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati has launched a broadside on Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi over his silence during the debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill.

Key Points

1

Mayawati highlights LoP's silence on controversial Waqf Bill

2

Congress and BJP accused of undermining marginalised communities

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Waqf Amendment Bill sparks nationwide opposition protests

Drawing parallels with the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), she alleged that LoP Gandhi's silence has triggered resentment among the Muslim community.

Taking to X on Saturday, Mayawati questioned the Congress MP's inaction.

"Is it appropriate for the Leader of Opposition to remain silent during the lengthy debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha? Especially when the Opposition has flagged it as a violation of constitutional provisions -- just like the CAA? The Muslim community's anger over this silence is only natural. This has also created discomfort within the INDIA bloc," she wrote.

The BSP leader further accused both the Congress and the BJP of betraying the interests of marginalised communities.

"Parties like the Congress and BJP are equally responsible for undermining the rights of Bahujans by rendering their reservations ineffective -- both in government employment and in education. Religious minorities should also be cautious of their hollow promises," she said.

The former UP Chief Minister further added that such policies have worsened the condition of Bahujans in Uttar Pradesh.

"Bahujans are facing distress in every sector while BJP workers act with impunity. The growing privatisation of electricity and other public sectors is adding to the problems. The government must uphold its constitutional duty to ensure public welfare," she said.

The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, which was passed by both Houses of Parliament and received the assent of President Droupadi Murmu, has now become law.

However, the legislation has sparked opposition from Congress, AIMIM, and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). They have all filed separate petitions in the Supreme Court challenging its constitutional validity.

Meanwhile, protests against the new law have erupted in various parts of the country. In Uttar Pradesh, the police remain on alert amid heightened tensions.

Religious leaders have urged the Muslim community to maintain peace and avoid any form of violent demonstration. Several Opposition parties have also expressed their support for the ongoing protests.

Reader Comments

A
Asif K.
Mayawati is right to call out the silence. We need leaders who actually stand up for minority rights, not just during elections. Disappointed with Rahul Gandhi's inaction on this important issue. 😔
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Priya M.
Interesting how Mayawati is positioning herself as the voice of both Bahujans and Muslims now. Political chess at play here. But she makes valid points about privatization hurting common people.
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Rajesh T.
While I don't always agree with Mayawati, she's spot on about the reservation issue. Both major parties have failed Bahujans. But is this Waqf bill protest really about rights or just political opportunism?
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Sana F.
As a Muslim woman, I appreciate Mayawati speaking up when others stay silent. But we need more than tweets - where's the concrete action plan? 🤔 The community deserves better representation.
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Vikram S.
Respectful criticism: Mayawati's statement would carry more weight if BSP had more presence in Parliament to actually oppose such bills. Easy to criticize when you're not in the fight.
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Fatima A.
The Waqf issue affects all of us. Glad it's going to Supreme Court. Hope justice prevails! 🙏 Peaceful protests are our right, but violence helps no one. Leaders should guide better.

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

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