New Delhi: In a move that has ignited heated debates, the Lok Sabha’s passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill has been described by Congress figurehead Sonia Gandhi as a brazen assault on India’s Constitution. This criticism comes on the heels of a marathon 12-hour debate that culminated in the bill’s approval, with opposition amendments falling flat. The legislative hurdle now shifts to the Rajya Sabha, where the bill’s fate hangs in the balance.
Sonia Gandhi’s stern critique reflects a broader concern that the BJP is using such legislation to maintain societal divisions, a strategy she terms “permanent polarisation.” Her remarks underscore a deeper worry about the Modi government’s approach to governance, which she believes is eroding constitutional principles and dragging India toward a surveillance state.
Gandhi addressed these concerns before Congress MPs in New Delhi, emphasizing the need to stand against what she perceives as constitutional subversions, notably the One Nation, One Election Bill. She also accused the prime minister of appropriating past initiatives as personal achievements, a political maneuver she argues needs to be exposed. Criticizing the parliamentary proceedings, Gandhi noted that opposition voices are often stifled while treasury benches create disruptions.
As the Waqf (Amendment) Bill heads to the Rajya Sabha, its journey promises to be fraught with challenges. The bill, which aims to streamline the management of Waqf properties, has been a point of contention, with critics arguing it could dilute minority rights. The upcoming Rajya Sabha session will likely see fierce debates on these lines, as the opposition gears up to challenge its passage.
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