YSRCP MP PV Mithun Reddy criticised the inclusion of non-Muslim members in Sections 9 and 14, changes to Waqf Boards' structure, and the amendment reducing the annual contribution from 7 percent to 5 percent, threatening financial independence
Published Apr 02, 2025 | 8:07 PM ⚊ Updated Apr 02, 2025 | 8:07 PM
YSRCP opposes Waqf Bill, cites constitutional violations
Synopsis: YSRCP MP PV Mithun Reddy has strongly opposed the Waqf Bill, citing constitutional violations and ignoring Muslim community’s concerns. During the Lok Sabha debate, he highlighted objections from Muslim organisations and stressed the bill’s unconstitutional nature, violating Articles 13, 14, 25, and 26, which protect fundamental rights, religious freedoms, and the autonomy of religious denominations in India
YSRCP MP PV Mithun Reddy has strongly opposed the Waqf Bill, despite it being referred to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), highlighting constitutional violations and the lack of consideration for concerns raised by the Muslim community.
During the Lok Sabha debate, Mithun Reddy pointed out that several prominent Muslim organisations, including the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, and Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, have raised significant objections to the bill.
“Even our party submitted detailed objections before the JPC, but unfortunately, most of these objections were not adequately addressed,” he stated.
He emphasised that in a country where nearly 14.6 percent of the population, or 20 crore people, are Muslim, their concerns must be taken seriously.
Reddy argued that the bill is unconstitutional, citing violations of Articles 13, 14, 25, and 26 of the Indian Constitution. These articles guarantee fundamental rights, including equality before the law, freedom to practice religion, and the right of religious denominations to manage their own affairs.
The MP specifically criticised the inclusion of non-Muslim members under Sections 9 and 14, as well as changes to the functioning and structure of Waqf Boards.
He also condemned the proposed amendment to Section 72(1), which reduces the annual contribution to the Waqf Board from 7 percent to 5 percent, calling it a direct attack on the financial independence of the Board.
“This provision has the potential to financially cripple the Board,” he warned.
Reddy also took a firm stance against the TDP’s position on the Waqf Bill, asserting that under the leadership of YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, the YSRCP remains dedicated to supporting the Muslim community and addressing their concerns.
The YSRCP MP urged the people of Andhra Pradesh to take note of the TDP’s stance, accusing Chandrababu Naidu of betraying the minority community while the YSRCP continues to advocate for justice, equality, and constitutional rights.
(Edited by Ananya Rao with inputs from Saicharan Sana)
