Daijiworld Media Network - Patna
Patna, Apr 5: The recently enacted Waqf (Amendment) Bill has ignited a political firestorm, with BJP National Spokesperson Syed Shahnawaz Hussain forcefully advocating for its merits, while Union Minister Chirag Paswan attempts to quell rising apprehensions within the Muslim community.
Hussain, speaking from Samastipur, asserted that the legislation is fundamentally "pro-Muslim and pro-poor," designed to uplift historically marginalized segments of the Muslim population. He stated, “The Waqf Amendment Bill is in the interest of Muslims. It will benefit the poor among them and give them a chance to develop themselves anew.”
Despite facing online threats and abuse for his stance, Hussain remained resolute. “I am being constantly threatened and abused on social media. We are tracing such people. But I stand firm on what I believe is right,” he declared. He also dismissed concerns about JD(U) resignations, labeling departing members as "non-influential faces" and confidently predicting the bill's positive impact on the NDA's electoral prospects.
Hussain countered allegations of bias, emphasizing that Waqf committees will continue to be led by Muslims and accusing the opposition of spreading misinformation reminiscent of the Citizenship Amendment Act. He urged the Muslim community to remain calm and informed, reiterating Prime Minister Modi's commitment to inclusive development.
Conversely, Union Minister Chirag Paswan addressed the growing discontent within the Muslim community with a conciliatory tone, invoking the legacy of his late father, Ram Vilas Paswan. He acknowledged the expressed dissatisfaction as a valid part of the democratic process.
"I want to tell every person of the Muslim community that I am grateful for your displeasure, but the reality is that my father also always fought for social justice with dedication," Paswan said, emphasizing his adherence to his father's principles. "I also have his blood in my veins, his values. I will also work to carry forward his thinking with the same honesty.”
Paswan urged the community to judge his actions over time, rather than relying on immediate political narratives. “Time will tell whether the decisions taken by Chirag Paswan were in your favour or not,” he concluded, appealing for trust and understanding amidst the contentious debate.