Waqf Bill will empower poor Muslims, says Syed Shahnawaz Hussain

Patna(The Uttam Hindu): Amid the political debate surrounding the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, BJP National Spokesperson and former Union Minister, Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, has strongly defended the legislation, calling it pro-Muslim and pro-poor. In a conversation in Samastipur, Hussain emphasized that the Bill, which has been approved by both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, aims to empower underprivileged Muslims, particularly those who have been historically marginalized.

“The Waqf Amendment Bill is designed with the welfare of Muslims in mind. It will benefit the poor and give them the opportunity to improve their lives,” said Hussain. He also shared that he has been facing threats and abusive messages online ever since he publicly supported the Bill. “I am being constantly threatened and abused on social media. We are tracking those responsible, but I stand firm in my belief that this is the right move,” Hussain added. On the political impact of the Bill, Hussain dismissed concerns that Muslim leaders would leave the JD(U), calling them non-influential figures. He asserted that such departures would not affect the party or the NDA and that the Bill would ultimately help the alliance gain more votes. Hussain also addressed fears and misconceptions about the Bill, assuring that Waqf committees would still be headed by Muslims, and there would be no religious or community bias involved.

“The Opposition is misleading the people, just like they did during the Citizenship Amendment Act. Muslims have nothing to fear,” Hussain clarified. He urged the Muslim community to remain calm and well-informed, advising against falling for misinformation. “There’s no need to take to the streets of Patna. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is working with the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,'” he said. Meanwhile, Union Minister Chirag Paswan responded to the growing dissatisfaction within some sections of the Muslim community regarding the Waqf Bill. In a reflective statement, he invoked the legacy of his late father, Ram Vilas Paswan. Paswan acknowledged the concerns of the Muslim community but valued them as part of the democratic process. “I appreciate the dissatisfaction expressed, but my father always fought for social justice. I will continue his work with the same dedication,” he said. He emphasized that his political actions are deeply rooted in the principles his father stood for. “I also have his values. I will carry them forward honestly,” Paswan added. Regarding the Waqf Amendment Bill, Paswan stated that his actions should be judged over time, not based on immediate political reactions. “Time will tell whether the decisions I have taken have been in your favor,” he concluded.