New Delhi, Mar 20 (UNI) The Karnataka Legislative Assembly's recent resolution rejecting the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, has drawn sharp criticism from BJP leaders.

Waqf Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) Chairman and BJP MP Jagdambika Pal condemned the move, stating it undermines democratic principles.

Reacting to the assembly's decision, Pal on Thursday remarked here that , "This is against the democratic spirit. It is a violation of rights given by the Constitution. In a federal structure, both the Centre and state assemblies have the power to make laws. The Karnataka Congress government does not believe in democracy or the Constitution. Only to save their identity, they are indulging in appeasement politics," he alleged.

The Karnataka government, led by the Congress, opposed the Bill, arguing that it encroaches upon state rights and affects the autonomy of the Waqf Board.

Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister HK Patil, who moved the resolution in the Assembly, asserted that the Bill contradicts the state's commitment to secularism and inclusivity. He stated, "This Act does not reflect the aspirations of all sections of society."

The bill seeks to introduce significant changes to the administration and regulation of Waqf properties, aiming to enhance transparency and efficiency. Key provisions include digitisation of records, enhanced audits, and stronger measures to reclaim encroached Waqf properties. While the Bill aims to address issues of mismanagement and corruption in Waqf institutions, critics argue that it does not adequately consider the concerns of affected communities.

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