Opposition in India Slams Waqf Bill Passage as “Farcical” and Threat to Democracy

The passage of the Waqf Bill has sparked a fierce backlash from opposition members, who argue that the government’s actions threaten India’s secular fabric and undermine minority rights.

The passage of the Waqf Bill by a joint parliamentary committee has sparked significant outrage among opposition members, who have labeled the entire process a “farcical exercise.” Critics argue that the ruling alliance is undermining democratic norms and interfering in Muslim religious affairs through the bill’s passage.

Opposition MPs have expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of the committee proceedings, accusing the committee chairperson, Jagdambika Pal, of acting in a “dictatorial manner.” They claim that Pal rejected their proposed amendments, while accepting 14 clauses favored by the ruling coalition. DMK MP A Raja has gone a step further, vowing to challenge the bill in the Supreme Court, denouncing the entire process as a “mockery.”

“The committee ignored our input and rejected amendments aimed at protecting minorities’ constitutional rights,” said Kalyan Banerjee, a TMC MP. The opposition believes the bill poses a significant threat to minority rights and India’s secular framework, claiming that their suggestions for safeguarding constitutional rights were unfairly dismissed.

Adding to the criticism, opposition members also condemned the chair for failing to provide documents from stakeholders, many of whom had voiced strong opposition to the bill. They accuse the government of using its parliamentary majority to “saffronize” India, pushing the country away from its secular roots. This, they argue, is part of a broader agenda to alter the country’s foundational values.

In light of these developments, the opposition has called on the public to defend India’s secular principles and protect the rights of minorities. They argue that the bill undermines constitutional guarantees and threatens social harmony. As the debate intensifies, many warn that the bill’s passage could have long-lasting consequences for democracy in India.