Vijayawada, April 2 — Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President Y S Sharmila Reddy has strongly condemned the recently introduced Waqf Amendment Bill, labelling it a direct assault on the religious freedoms guaranteed to Muslims under the Indian Constitution.
Calling the bill a “plot to suppress minorities,” Sharmila alleged that it was part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s broader agenda to target Muslim communities and incite religious disharmony. Terming the day of its introduction a "black day" for the country, she accused the government of attempting to undermine constitutional values and minority rights.
She also criticised the move to place Waqf properties under government supervision and questioned the practicality of demanding documents for properties that are over 300 years old.
“The bill not only disrespects the religious sentiments of Muslims but also opens the door for the government to take control of Waqf assets and potentially transfer them to Modi’s allies,” Sharmila alleged.
Y S Sharmila’s remarks come at a time of heightened political tension, with the bill drawing strong reactions from various quarters, particularly among minority groups and opposition parties.
Calling the bill a “plot to suppress minorities,” Sharmila alleged that it was part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s broader agenda to target Muslim communities and incite religious disharmony. Terming the day of its introduction a "black day" for the country, she accused the government of attempting to undermine constitutional values and minority rights.
"Deeply Concerning Provisions" in the Bill
In a post on social media platform X, Sharmila raised alarm over several provisions in the bill. She pointed to the requirement that individuals must follow Islamic practices for five years before they are eligible to receive Waqf land — a clause she described as “unacceptable.”She also criticised the move to place Waqf properties under government supervision and questioned the practicality of demanding documents for properties that are over 300 years old.
“The bill not only disrespects the religious sentiments of Muslims but also opens the door for the government to take control of Waqf assets and potentially transfer them to Modi’s allies,” Sharmila alleged.
Attack on TDP and Jana Sena Support
The APCC chief didn’t hold back in her criticism of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Jana Sena Party for supporting the bill. She described their stance as "shameful" and accused TDP leader Chandrababu Naidu of hypocrisy, pointing out what she called his inconsistent views on the issue of Waqf properties.Y S Sharmila’s remarks come at a time of heightened political tension, with the bill drawing strong reactions from various quarters, particularly among minority groups and opposition parties.
