VHP Defends Waqf Bill Amid Opposition from Muslim Leaders

On Tuesday, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) criticized those who are against the Waqf (Amendment) Act. They said that any group claiming their religious laws are more important than the Constitution is hurting India’s unity and democracy. In a statement, VHP leader Vijay Shankar Tiwari mentioned that some Muslim leaders are trying to confuse the Muslim community after the Waqf (Amendment) Bill was approved by Parliament. The VHP emphasized that India is a country where no religious or caste-based group should ignore the Constitution.

Last week, Parliament approved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill after a long discussion. Many opposition parties argued against these bills, saying they were unfair to Muslims. However, the government believes these changes will help minority communities. President Droupadi Murmu approved both bills on April 5.

Now, many petitions, including ones from politicians and groups like the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), are being filed in the Supreme Court to challenge the Waqf (Amendment) Act. On Monday, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind called the passage of this Bill a bad day for minority rights. The AIMPLB has said it will work with various religious and social groups to organize a nationwide movement against the Waqf (Amendment) Act until it is completely repealed.