Mugdha Das

Gaurav Gogoi slams government over Waqf Amendment Bill

Digital Desk: Opposing the WAQF Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha, the deputy leader of the opposition in the lower house, Gaurav Gogoi, has accused the government of attempting to undermine the contributions of the Muslim community in India’s struggle for independence.

In a strong statement, Gogoi highlighted the role of the community in key moments of the freedom movement, stating that the BJP-led central government wants to tarnish the legacy of those who fought for India’s independence.

He further criticized the RSS, alleging that while its members were opposing the Quit India Movement and seeking apologies, the Muslim community was actively fighting for the nation’s freedom.

Further emphasizing historical contributions, he stated that the community had outright rejected Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s two-nation theory in 1924 and had always stood for national unity.

Gaurav Gogoi also raised serious concerns over the drafting process of Waqf Amendment Bill, questioning whether it was prepared by the ministry of minority affairs or another ministry.

Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Gogoi alleged that the government’s claim of comprehensive discussions before introducing the bill was misleading.

He pointed out that in the five meetings held by the ministry of minority affairs, there was no mention of the need for a new Waqf amendment bill.

Gogoi’s remarks came amid strong opposition from the Congress and other parties, who have accused the BJP-led central government of pushing the bill without proper consultations.