Amit Shah Confirms Waqf Amendment Bill to be Tabled in Budget Session
New Delhi, March 28 (ANI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Friday that the Waqf Amendment Bill, which has received a report from the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), will be tabled in the ongoing Budget session of Parliament. The session is set to conclude on April 4.
Speaking at the Times Now Summit, Shah emphasized the BJP’s commitment to strengthening internal security and implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). Addressing concerns surrounding the Waqf Bill, he reassured that there is no cause for fear, stating that the proposed amendments align with constitutional principles and will not be applied retrospectively. He also clarified that individuals with grievances could approach the court.
Shah criticized the 2013 Waqf Bill passed under the Congress-led government, claiming it contained unconstitutional provisions. He highlighted cases where properties, including 123 prime locations in Delhi and Chandra Shekhar Azad Garden in Prayagraj, were declared Waqf properties. He questioned demands by some groups to declare Parliament and Rashtrapati Bhavan as Waqf properties, calling them unacceptable.
BJP’s Political Strategy and Election Predictions
Discussing the political landscape, Shah reiterated his belief that the BJP-led government would remain in power for the next 15-20 years. He attributed the party’s confidence to its governance under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
On the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, Shah predicted a resounding victory for the NDA, citing significant developmental work by the central and state governments. He also expressed confidence in the NDA’s prospects in Tamil Nadu, where talks with AIADMK were ongoing. Criticizing the ruling DMK, he accused the party of misgovernance and dynastic politics.
Shah defended the National Education Policy (NEP), stating that it promotes primary education in regional languages, including Tamil. He dismissed DMK’s opposition to the policy, suggesting it was an attempt to divert attention from governance failures.
Jammu & Kashmir Elections and Statehood Restoration
Regarding the recent Jammu and Kashmir elections, Shah described them as historic, highlighting that for the first time in 40 years, no re-polling was required, no violence occurred, and voter turnout reached 60%. He assured that statehood would be restored at an appropriate time.
Other Key Issues: Uniform Civil Code, Election Commission, and Manipur
Shah reiterated the BJP’s commitment to implementing the UCC, citing Uttarakhand’s recent adoption of the law and confirming that other BJP-ruled states would follow.
Defending the recent law concerning the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner, he emphasized the importance of trust in the system. When questioned about Rahul Gandhi’s citizenship status, he refrained from commenting, stating that the Home Ministry would clarify its position in court.
On the ongoing unrest in Manipur, Shah stated that markets and shops were open, and the situation was gradually normalizing.
Criticism of Congress and Opposition Allegations
Shah dismissed allegations of an “undeclared Emergency” and rejected claims of discrimination against non-BJP-ruled states in fund allocation. He also criticized the Congress government’s move in Karnataka to grant religion-based reservation in public contracts, arguing that the Constitution does not allow such measures.
On the Places of Worship Act, Shah said the matter is under judicial review. Regarding demands for a caste census, he pointed out that Congress had previously opposed it and that the government was working on a methodology before making a decision.
Concluding his remarks, Shah stated that his agenda was aligned with the BJP’s vision of making India a developed nation by 2047. He emphasized that the party’s success in elections comes from its selfless commitment to national progress.