New Delhi: Swami Jitendranand Saraswati, National General Secretary of the Akhil Bharatiya Sant Samiti, voiced strong support for the Waqf Amendment Bill, expressing confidence that it would be passed in Parliament on Wednesday. He stated, “Every sadhu and saint across the country is filled with joy and hope as they await the bill’s passage. We are certain it will pass in Parliament.”
Swami Saraswati also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP for introducing the bill, stating, “We fully support this bill and commend the government for its initiative.”
Syed Naseruddin Chishty, Chair of the All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council, also backed the bill. He emphasised the long-awaited hope within the community, stating, “People have been waiting for this for a long time. There is a widespread belief that this bill will bring positive change”. In a democracy, everyone has the right to protest, but the government’s willingness to address the opposition’s concerns will ensure the bill’s success.”
He added that the bill would have a significant impact by ensuring that Waqf funds are effectively utilised for the welfare of poor and ordinary Muslims, a sentiment echoed by other NDA leaders.
Rajkumar Sangwan, MP of the Rastriya Lok Dal, expressed support, saying, “We are part of the NDA, and all views have been considered by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). The bill will be introduced today, and the government is taking decisions in the interest of the people.”
BJP leader NV Subhash highlighted the party’s commitment to introducing the bill, noting, “During our 2024 election manifesto, we made it clear that the Waqf Bill would be tabled in Parliament. The bill addresses issues related to transparency and accountability in Waqf property management, ensuring development for all, including Muslim minorities.”
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju affirmed that the Waqf Amendment Bill, scheduled to be introduced in the Lok Sabha, serves the nation’s interest. He stressed that opposition to the bill was politically motivated, asserting that no logical objections had been addressed by the government.
Union Minister and RLD President Jayant Chaudhary also expressed his party’s support for the bill, stating, “We are with the NDA and have issued a whip.”
Meanwhile, Union Minister George Kurian noted that the bill had widespread support across communities, with opposition only coming from large homeowners benefiting from the current system.