Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Sunday demanded the withdrawal of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill.
The minority cell of the party held a rally near the Raj Bhavan here demanding the withdrawal of the bill as they claimed it would affect harmony among the community.
The Central Government has listed 16 bills, including the Waqf Amendment Bill, for consideration in the Winter Session of Parliament beginning on Monday.
The BJD Minority cell also submitted a memorandum to President of India through the District Collector of Khordha where they made certain suggestions and expressed concerns regarding the proposed amendments to the Waqf Act, 1995.
“We urge that this proposed bill be withdrawn and that comprehensive consultations be held with stakeholders to address their concerns before any amendments are introduced in Parliament. We, as concerned citizens, are committed to the welfare of our nation, trust in your esteemed office to uphold justice and fairness in this matter”, the memorandum stated.
The proposed changes in the Waqf Bill have “far reaching implications” on the autonomy, protection, and governance of Waqf properties, considered as sacred and integral to the religious and social welfare of the Muslim community, the BJD said.
The BJD MPs will strongly oppose the Waq (Amendment) bill in the Parliament, said BJD Minority Cell president and MP Munna Khan.
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