Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra has expressed strong support for the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha, calling it a historic moment for the entire country. Speaking about the bill, which aims to overhaul the management of Waqf properties and provide greater transparency and accountability, Vijayendra highlighted its importance in addressing long-standing grievances related to the Waqf Board.
“It’s a great moment for the entire country. The issue of Waqf was long pending. For decades, thousands of people were suppressed by the Waqf Board, especially by Section 40,” Vijayendra stated, emphasizing how the Waqf system had impacted individuals and institutions over the years. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for ensuring that the bill was passed in the Lok Sabha, describing it as a pivotal achievement for the country. “Yesterday, due to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the bill was passed in the Lok Sabha. It’s a historic moment,” he added.
The BJP leader went on to specifically address the situation in Karnataka, pointing out that many properties belonging to temples and other religious institutions had been taken over by the Waqf Board. “Karnataka is a classic example where hundreds of properties belonging to temples or religious institutions have been taken over by Waqf, and no one has the authority to question this in the Court,” Vijayendra said. He highlighted the need for reforms to ensure that such practices are curtailed, giving greater protection to the rights of religious and charitable institutions.
Vijayendra also took a swipe at the Congress party, which has been critical of the Waqf Amendment Bill, suggesting that the opposition’s stance on the issue was self-serving. “Don’t worry about Congress. They themselves are to blame for the Waqf issue,” he remarked, accusing the Congress of being complicit in allowing the Waqf Board to operate without proper oversight for years.
The passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill has sparked significant political debate, with the BJP praising it as a necessary reform while the opposition parties have raised concerns about its implications. The bill seeks to regulate the management of Waqf properties, address historical grievances, and ensure that assets are used for public welfare. However, critics argue that it could undermine religious and community rights.
Vijayendra’s comments reflect the BJP’s strong push for the bill and its broader political narrative, while underscoring the party’s commitment to what it sees as necessary reforms in the management of Waqf properties and safeguarding the interests of religious institutions. As the bill continues to stir debate, its passage marks a significant milestone in the ongoing conversation about religious property management in India.
