Tamil Nadu Assembly Rejects Centre’s Waqf Bill Amendments in Heated Session

The Tamil Nadu Assembly took a firm stand on Thursday, passing a resolution opposing the Centre’s proposed amendments to the Waqf Bill 2024, urging the Union Government to withdraw the legislation. According to the sources, came with strong backing from most parties, despite a walkout and protests from BJP members. The resolution reflects concerns that the changes would negatively impact the Muslim minority community, spotlighting a contentious debate over religious and constitutional rights in the state.

Broad Political Support Overshadows BJP Dissent

The resolution garnered widespread approval in the Assembly, uniting the ruling party with the principal opposition AIADMK and even the PMK, a BJP ally, in a rare show of consensus. Chief Minister M K Stalin, who introduced the measure, argued that the amendments threaten the autonomy of the Waqf Board. Stalin emphasized that the proposed changes undermine religious freedom and infringe upon the constitutional protections afforded to minority institutions, a stance that resonated across party lines except with the dissenting BJP faction.

Stalin Slams Bill as Attack on Muslim Sentiments

In a pointed address, Stalin condemned the Centre’s push to alter the Waqf Act, labeling it an affront to Muslim sentiments and a direct challenge to their rights. He warned that the amendments would curtail the Waqf Board’s authority, a critical body for managing Muslim charitable properties. Vowing continued resistance, Stalin’s administration signaled an unwavering commitment to opposing the bill, framing it as a broader struggle to safeguard minority interests against perceived overreach by the Union Government.