Owaisi Criticizes Waqf Amendment Bill, Warns of Upcoming Protests: 'We Have Already Lost One Mosque, We Won't Lose More'
AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi has once again targeted the Modi government over the proposed Waqf Amendment Bill, accusing it of specifically targeting the Muslim community. Speaking in Telangana’s Mahbubnagar, Owaisi stated that the issue of Waqf is not just a concern for any one sect within Islam but for all Muslims. He also hinted at launching a protest against the bill soon, stating that Muslims have already lost one mosque and cannot afford to lose more sacred places like mosques, khanqahs, dargahs, and orphanages.
Owaisi questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intentions, asking why he wants to include non-Muslims in the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards. He emphasized that the strength of the country lies in allowing every religion to practice its beliefs freely, but alleged that the Prime Minister is targeting Muslims for political gains.
'Waqf Issue Concerns All Muslims, Not Just One Sect'
Owaisi clarified that the issue of Waqf is not limited to any one sect within Islam, such as Deobandis, Barelvis, or Ahl-e-Hadith, but is a concern for the entire Muslim community. He questioned how the properties would be protected if the Waqf lands were taken away, asking what legal framework would ensure their safety.
'History Is Repeating Itself'
Drawing a parallel to the persecution of Jews during Hitler's regime, Owaisi claimed that similar actions are now being taken against Muslims in India. He criticized the BJP for suggesting that the Waqf owns 8 lakh acres of land, pointing out that these lands were not given by any government, RSS, BJP, or political party, but by the ancestors of the Muslim community.
Owaisi also expressed concern over the growing violence against Muslims, citing an incident in Maharashtra where elderly Muslims were assaulted. He noted that those responsible for these acts of violence often operate in groups, likening them to gangs that target Muslims.
Owaisi’s statements reflect his strong opposition to the Waqf Amendment Bill and set the stage for potential protests against the government’s proposed changes, highlighting the tensions surrounding the issue within the Muslim community.