RJD MP Manoj Jha Slams Waqf (Amendment) Bill, Calls It 'Unconstitutional'

By A Staff Reporter

New Delhi: Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha has strongly opposed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in Parliament, calling it unconstitutional and alleging that it is being used as a tool for dog whistle politics.

"The entire opposition is standing against this because it is an unconstitutional Bill and is synonymous with dog whistle politics," Jha stated during the session. He accused the government of using divisive strategies and drew parallels with the farmers' protest, where he claimed the government had to step back due to public pressure.

Jha further alleged that the amendments to Waqf laws were being made to create a sense of alienation among the Muslim community. "During the farmers' protest, they had to step back because they wanted to give a sense of alienation to the Muslim community in a targeted way," he said.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, which aims to bring reforms to Waqf properties and administration, has triggered strong pushback from the opposition, who argue that it discriminates against minorities. The government, however, maintains that the bill is meant to enhance transparency and accountability in Waqf-related matters.