Waqf Bill: Backers, opponents, and BJP’s numbers in Parliament
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, will trigger a major clash in Parliament. The Lok Sabha will debate and vote on the bill on Wednesday, followed by the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju confirmed that the Business Advisory Committee, chaired by Speaker Om Birla, allotted eight hours for discussion.
BJP’s Strategy and Support
BJP leaders expressed confidence in passing the bill. Key allies such as Janata Dal (United), Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), and Telugu Desam Party pledged support. Their votes are crucial for BJP to secure a majority.
JD(U) leaders dismissed opposition claims that the bill encroaches on minority rights. A senior JD(U) leader said they had consulted the Muslim Personal Law Board, Waqf Board, and religious leaders, assuring them their concerns would reach the government.
LJP (RV) leaders echoed this stance. They emphasized helping poor Muslims rather than engaging in political narratives. TDP leader Chandrababu Naidu also backed the bill, stating it safeguards Muslim interests.
Shiv Sena issued a whip to ensure its MPs support the government in the Lok Sabha. Union Minister Chirag Paswan of LJP (RV) did the same, reinforcing NDA unity.
Opposition’s Stand
The Opposition INDIA bloc strategized to counter the bill. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and KC Venugopal joined forces with Samajwadi Party’s Ram Gopal Yadav, NCP’s Supriya Sule, and TMC’s Kalyan Banerjee. Leaders from DMK, RJD, CPI(M), CPI, RSP, and MDMK also attended.
Kharge declared that the Opposition would fight BJP’s “divisive agenda.” Rahul Gandhi confirmed detailed discussions on the bill. Congress leader Venugopal called it a “violation of Constitutional values.”
TMC’s Banerjee accused BJP of avoiding discussions. RJD MP Manoj Jha warned against BJP’s attempt to “bulldoze” the Opposition. NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule vowed to engage in the debate and vote against the bill.
BJP’s Parliamentary Numbers
In the Lok Sabha, BJP needs 272 votes to pass the bill. Of the 542 MPs, BJP has 240, JD(U) 12, TDP 16, LJP (RV) five, RLD two, and Shiv Sena seven. With NDA unity, the bill will likely pass.
In the Rajya Sabha, BJP leads with 98 MPs. The NDA holds 125 seats, including JD(U) (four), TDP (two), NCP (three), Shiv Sena (one), and RLD (one). The bill requires 119 votes. NDA expects backing from parties like Asom Gana Parishad and Tamil Mannila Congress, along with six nominated MPs.
With firm ally support, BJP appears set to clear the bill in both houses despite Opposition resistance.
