Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis Questions Uddhav Thackeray's Stand on Waqf Amendment Bill

Mumbai, Apr 1 – Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stirred the political waters on Tuesday by questioning whether Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray would uphold the ideology of his father, the late Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray, when the controversial Waqf Amendment Bill is presented in Parliament. The bill, aimed at improving the administration and management of waqf properties, is set to be tabled in Parliament on Wednesday, with a likely introduction in the Lower House.

Opposition to the Waqf Amendment Bill​

The Waqf Amendment Bill has faced significant opposition, with critics arguing that it is unconstitutional and detrimental to the interests of the Muslim community. Various prominent Muslim organizations have mobilized against the bill, which was scrutinized by a Joint Committee of Parliament before being approved with multiple amendments.

Fadnavis' Challenge to Uddhav Thackeray​

Fadnavis took to X (formerly Twitter), questioning Thackeray’s commitment to the principles of his late father. He posted, “Let’s see if Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray will uphold the ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray, the Hindu Hriday Samrat, or will continue to follow in the footsteps of Rahul Gandhi in appeasement politics.”

Opposition Response​

In response to Fadnavis’ remarks, Ambadas Danve, the Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council, stated that his party’s position on the bill would be made clear in Parliament. Despite the opposition from several quarters, the Shiv Sena (UBT) has maintained a relatively reserved stance on the bill.

Shiv Sena (UBT) Presence in Parliament​

The Shiv Sena (UBT) holds nine seats in the Lok Sabha and two in the Rajya Sabha. However, the party’s MLAs were absent during the debate on the bill last year in the Lok Sabha. This absence continues to fuel speculation about the party’s position on the issue.

The political dynamics surrounding the Waqf Amendment Bill are expected to play out further when it is presented in Parliament tomorrow, with key decisions likely to shape future alliances and strategies in Maharashtra’s political landscape.