The Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind has escalated its campaign against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, urging leaders Chandrababu Naidu of the TDP and Nitish Kumar of the JD(U) to heed the concerns of the Muslim community. During the ‘Save Constitution Convention’ at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, Jamiat chief Maulana Arshad Madani warned that if the bill is enacted, both leaders—referred to as the “two crutches” supporting the BJP-led government—would share the blame.
Madani emphasized that the BJP was defeated in the past due to public rejection of its policies. He expressed disappointment that Naidu did not attend but sent the party’s vice president, Nawab Jan, instead, believing he would effectively communicate the sentiments of the large gathering.
He stated, “If the Waqf Bill is passed while ignoring Muslim emotions, the crutches supporting the government will not escape accountability.” The Jamiat plans to gather around five lakh Muslims in Naidu’s constituency later this month or in December to articulate their concerns in detail.
Madani highlighted the historical significance of Waqf properties, asserting that they are part of divine ownership. He emphasized the need for government protection of these sites, stating, “We live in this country; we are not outsiders.”He also addressed communal unity, asserting that identities should not divide, as Muslims share cultural ties with other communities. Madani noted the existence of ancient mosques in Delhi and questioned attempts to appropriate these sites, referencing laws that recognize mosques built on Waqf land as Waqf property.
Furthermore, he recalled the commitments made by the INDIA alliance and Rahul Gandhi regarding minority rights during the Lok Sabha elections, encouraging Muslims to support the coalition that promised religious freedom. He expressed satisfaction that Muslim voters rallied behind the alliance, contributing to the BJP’s electoral defeat
